Chimichurri Flank Steak

Chimichurri Flank Steak is a dish that brings flavor and excitement to any meal. Succulent flank steak gets a zesty twist from a fresh chimichurri sauce. This sauce is made with herbs, garlic, and a hint of spice. It adds a unique touch that elevates the whole dish. Whether you are grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this recipe is simple yet impressive.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love Chimichurri Flank Steak. First, it is packed with flavor. The sauce is vibrant and fresh, and it complements the rich taste of the beef. Second, the dish is quick to prepare. With minimal active cooking time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in less than an hour. Third, it is perfect for gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or a casual dinner, this dish will impress your guests. Finally, it is versatile. You can serve it with various sides or use it in different recipes, like sandwiches or salads.

HOW TO MAKE Chimichurri Flank Steak

Making Chimichurri Flank Steak is straightforward. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. This section will guide you through the equipment you need, the ingredients, and the step-by-step instructions to make this delightful dish.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make Chimichurri Flank Steak, you will need:

• A food processor
• A large baking dish or plastic food storage bag
• A cast iron skillet
• A cutting board
• A sharp knife

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 ½ – 2 pounds flank steak
• 2 tablespoons fresh garlic, peeled
• ½ cup fresh parsley
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro
• 1 cup avocado oil
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper
• ½ tablespoon salt plus more to taste

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

For the Chimichurri Sauce

1. Start by preparing the chimichurri sauce. Take your food processor and add the fresh garlic. Pulse until minced.
2. Next, add the fresh parsley and cilantro. Pulse these until they are finely chopped.
3. Add the remaining ingredients for the chimichurri sauce: avocado oil, lemon juice, oregano, crushed red pepper, and salt. Pulse until everything is well combined.
4. Set the chimichurri sauce aside.

For the Steak

1. Prepare the flank steak. If it is large, cut it down the middle. Make sure to cut against the grain for tenderness.
2. Place the flank steak into a large baking dish or plastic food storage bag.
3. Pour ⅓ cup of the chimichurri over the steak to coat it well.
4. Let the steak marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate for 1-2 hours for more flavor.
5. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes.
6. Remove the steak from the chimichurri, scraping off any excess marinade. Pat it dry with paper towels and sprinkle a modest amount of salt over it.
7. Pour 1 tablespoon of avocado oil into the skillet. Heat the oil until it shimmers. If you are cooking one large piece of steak, use 2 tablespoons of oil.
8. Carefully place the steaks in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side. Cooking time may vary based on thickness, so adjust as needed.
9. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet. Let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes.
10. After resting, cut the steak into ½” slices against the grain.
11. Arrange the slices on a large serving platter and top with fresh chimichurri sauce. Serve with additional chimichurri on the side.

 

 

HOW TO SERVE Chimichurri Flank Steak

Chimichurri Flank Steak can be served in many ways. It shines as the main course at dinner but can also be used in sandwiches or as part of a salad. You might place it on a tortilla for a delicious taco, or serve it with grilled vegetables on the side. Think about adding rice or quinoa to soak up the flavors. Don’t forget extra chimichurri for drizzling!

STORAGE & FREEZING: Chimichurri Flank Steak

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge. Place the steak and any chimichurri in an airtight container. It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. If you want to freeze it, wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Chimichurri Flank Steak pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it with:

• Grilled vegetables
• A fresh garden salad
• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Rice pilaf or quinoa salad

You can even blend it into a sandwich with crusty bread and some greens.

VARIATIONS

There are many ways to switch up this recipe:

• Add Different Herbs: Switch out parsley and cilantro for basil or mint for a new flavor profile.
• Spicy Version: Add more crushed red pepper to the chimichurri for those who love heat.
• Alternate Meat Cuts: You can use skirt steak or sirloin instead of flank steak for a different texture.
• Vegetarian Option: Use the chimichurri sauce on grilled vegetables or tofu for a tasty vegetarian meal.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use pre-made chimichurri sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought chimichurri sauce if you are short on time.

Q2: How do I know if my steak is cooked?
Use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, it should read 130-135°F.

Q3: What drinks pair well with Chimichurri Flank Steak?
Red wines like Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon are great options. You can also serve with water or iced tea.

Q4: Can I marinate the steak overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight will deepen the flavors. Ensure it is covered and stored in the fridge.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Chimichurri Flank Steak

To make your cooking easier, you can prepare several components ahead of time. Here are some tips:

1. Prep Chimichurri Sauce: Make the chimichurri sauce a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
2. Marinate Early: Marinate the steak in the morning if you plan to cook it in the evening.
3. Choose Sides: Prepare any sides the day before. For instance, salads can be prepped but dress them just before serving to keep them fresh.

With these tips, you can streamline your cooking process and enjoy a delicious meal without the last-minute rush. Enjoy every bite of your Chimichurri Flank Steak!

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