Description
Chimichurri Flank Steak is a flavorful, Argentine-inspired dish that features a juicy, grilled flank steak marinated in a vibrant, herbaceous chimichurri sauce. The sauce, made with parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and spices, infuses the steak with a zesty, garlicky, and slightly tangy flavor. When grilled to perfection, the flank steak is tender and juicy, while the chimichurri adds a fresh, bold contrast. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or any occasion where you want a steak with a burst of fresh, tangy flavor. It’s often served with a side of grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes for a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped: The base of the sauce, providing color and flavor.
- ¼ cup fresh oregano, chopped: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor that’s characteristic of chimichurri.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: For a punch of savory, garlicky goodness.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Gives the sauce its signature tangy kick.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds a slight sharpness to balance the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a touch of heat.
- ½ cup olive oil: Acts as the base of the sauce, helping to bring all the ingredients together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning.
For the Flank Steak:
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak: The star of the dish, with its rich flavor and ability to absorb marinades.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the steak and adding a bit of richness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the steak before cooking.
Instructions
STEP 1: MAKE THE CHIMICHURRI SAUCE
Start by preparing the chimichurri sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, red pepper flakes, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the sauce is well mixed. The vibrant green color and fresh aroma of the sauce will immediately get your taste buds excited.
Set aside a portion of the chimichurri for drizzling on top of the cooked steak. You can store the leftover sauce in the refrigerator for up to a week or use it as a marinade for other meats.
STEP 2: PREPARE THE FLANK STEAK
While the chimichurri sauce is coming together, prep your flank steak. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help it sear better when it hits the grill or pan.
Rub both sides of the steak with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—it enhances the flavor of the meat and helps create a delicious crust when seared.
STEP 3: GRILL OR SEAR THE STEAK
There are two great methods for cooking flank steak: grilling or pan-searing. Both methods work beautifully for this recipe, so choose based on your preference or what equipment you have available.
Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once the grill is hot, place the flank steak on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Flank steak is best served medium-rare to medium, so be mindful not to overcook it. Use tongs to flip the steak, ensuring you get an even sear on both sides. Once done, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices and ensures a juicy steak.
Pan-Seared: If you prefer to cook indoors, heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan and let it heat until shimmering. Place the steak in the pan and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on your desired level of doneness. Be sure to get a nice, golden-brown crust on each side. Once the steak is done, remove it from the pan and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
STEP 4: SLICE THE STEAK
Once the steak has rested, it’s time to slice it. Flank steak has long muscle fibers, so it’s crucial to slice against the grain to ensure the meat is tender. Hold the steak steady with tongs or a fork, and use a sharp knife to slice the steak into thin strips, cutting perpendicular to the grain.
STEP 5: SERVE WITH CHIMICHURRI
Arrange the sliced flank steak on a serving platter and drizzle with the chimichurri sauce. You can also serve the sauce on the side for guests to add as they like. Garnish with extra fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for an added touch of color and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 32g