Best Flank Steak with Chimichurri Recipe Ideas

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and tender, juicy meat, you’ll fall head over heels for this Flank Steak with Chimichurri recipe. This dish combines the rich, savory notes of perfectly grilled flank steak with the fresh, herbaceous punch of chimichurri sauce, creating an unforgettable meal experience that is as vibrant as it is satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe promises a mouthwatering feast packed with fresh herbs and bright, zesty flavors that celebrate simple yet powerful ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and Fresh Flavors: The chimichurri brings a vibrant mix of herbs and tang that perfectly complements the rich, smoky steak.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for busy days or last-minute meals.
• Great for Any Occasion: Elegant enough for dinner parties yet casual enough for family meals.
• Healthier Protein Choice: Flank steak offers a lean cut packed with protein and wonderful texture.
• Highly Customizable: This recipe is easy to tweak for different tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Flank Steak with Chimichurri recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component adds a layer of depth to the dish—fresh herbs for brightness, garlic for punch, and the flank steak itself for hearty satisfaction.

• Flank Steak: Choose a well-marbled flank steak for the most tender, flavorful results.
• Fresh Parsley and Cilantro: These herbs create the bright, grassy base of the chimichurri sauce.
• Garlic: Adds pungent warmth and balances the acidity.
• Red Wine Vinegar: Brings acidity to refresh the palate and cut through the richness.
• Olive Oil: Helps emulsify the sauce and infuses richness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Offers a mild heat that livens up each bite.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the steak and sauce.

Variations for Flank Steak with Chimichurri

This recipe adapts easily to your kitchen creativity, dietary choices, and ingredient availability. Feel free to personalize the chimichurri or steak preparation to suit your preferences.

• Spicy Chimichurri Twist: Add chopped jalapeño or smoked paprika for an extra layer of heat.
• Grilled or Pan-Seared: Cook the flank steak over a grill for a smoky char or sear it in a hot pan if grilling isn’t an option.
• Use Different Herbs: Substitute cilantro with mint or oregano for unique herb profiles.
• Make it Vegan: Swap the beef flank steak with grilled portobello mushrooms, with chimichurri serving as the star sauce.
• Citrus Chimichurri: Add lemon or orange zest to brighten the sauce even further.

How to Make Flank Steak with Chimichurri

Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

Chop parsley, cilantro, and garlic finely. In a bowl, whisk together the herbs, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper until you have a vibrant, slightly chunky sauce. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 2: Season the Flank Steak

Generously season both sides of the flank steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Heat a grill or cast-iron skillet over high heat. Sear the flank steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time based on steak thickness and preferred doneness.

Step 4: Rest and Slice

Remove the steak from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness and soak up every bit of chimichurri flavor.

Step 5: Serve with Chimichurri

Generously spoon the chimichurri sauce over the sliced flank steak or serve on the side for dipping. Enjoy the harmonious balance of juicy meat and fresh, zesty herbs.

Pro Tips for Making Flank Steak with Chimichurri

• Resting is Essential: Allow the steak to rest after cooking to redistribute juices and retain tenderness.
• Slicing Against the Grain: Cutting across the muscle fibers prevents chewiness and makes every bite tender.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and cilantro pack a punch that dried herbs simply can’t replicate.
• Marinate Optional: While not necessary, marinating the steak for 30 minutes in some chimichurri can enhance flavor.
• Adjust Heat Levels: Red pepper flakes can be tailored to your spice preference—just sprinkle less or more.

How to Serve Flank Steak with Chimichurri

Garnishes

A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or a few whole cilantro leaves elevates the presentation and adds extra herbaceous aroma.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad to balance the hearty steak and vibrant sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the sliced flank steak over a bed of quinoa or fluffy rice, or pile it into warm tortillas for a mouthwatering steak taco experience topped with chimichurri.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover flank steak and chimichurri separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep flavors fresh and meat tender.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked flank steak wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently to maintain juiciness.

Reheating

Reheat steak slices in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at short intervals, then refresh with chimichurri sauce right before serving to keep it vibrant.

FAQs

What cut of steak is best for chimichurri?

Flank steak is ideal because it’s lean, flavorful, and absorbs the bold flavors of chimichurri beautifully when sliced thin.

Can I prepare chimichurri in advance?

Absolutely! Chimichurri actually tastes better when made ahead and rested for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors meld.

Should the steak be marinated in chimichurri?

While optional, marinating the steak in chimichurri for 20-30 minutes can infuse extra flavor, but you can also serve the sauce fresh alongside the cooked steak.

How do I ensure the steak stays tender?

Allow the steak to rest after cooking and always slice thinly against the grain to break up muscle fibers for maximum tenderness.

Is chimichurri spicy?

Traditional chimichurri has a mild heat from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the spice level based on your preference by increasing or reducing the flakes.

Final Thoughts

This Flank Steak with Chimichurri recipe is one of those dishes that feels both simple and spectacular all at once. The marriage of juicy, perfectly cooked steak and the fresh, zesty chimichurri makes for a meal you’ll want to serve again and again. Grab your ingredients, fire up the grill or pan, and enjoy a plate full of bold colors, flavors, and smiles. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder why more people haven’t discovered this delicious combo yet!

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