Steak with Chimichurri Sauce: 5 Reasons You’ll Love It

Let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite dishes: *Steak with Chimichurri Sauce*. This dish is a beautiful marriage of rich, juicy steak and a vibrant, zesty chimichurri that just dances on your taste buds! It’s seriously one of those recipes that can transform a regular dinner into a culinary celebration. I first fell in love with this combination during a summer barbecue at my cousin’s house. The smell of the steak sizzling on the grill mixed with the fresh, herbaceous aroma of the chimichurri had me drooling before I even took my first bite. And when I did? Wow! The steak was perfectly cooked, and that chimichurri added such a bright kick—my mouth was singing! Since then, I’ve made it a staple at home. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone together, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends. You’ll see what I mean once you give it a try!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering *Steak with Chimichurri Sauce*. Trust me, having everything prepped and ready makes the cooking process so much smoother and more enjoyable!

• 1 lb ribeye steak, trimmed and cut into two portions for easy grilling
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, tightly packed, because the fresher, the better!
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, packed in too, for that extra burst of flavor
• 3 cloves garlic, minced finely to really infuse the chimichurri
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, to add a tangy kick that pairs beautifully with the steak
• 1/2 tsp salt, to enhance all those fabulous flavors
• 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly ground if you can, for that little extra zing
• 1/2 cup olive oil, the good stuff, to help blend the sauce and add richness
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, adjust based on your spice tolerance—it’s all about your taste!

Make sure to grab fresh herbs for the chimichurri; they really elevate the dish and make it pop! Now that we have everything lined up, let’s get to cooking!

How to Prepare *Steak with Chimichurri Sauce*

Okay, let’s dive into the fun part—making this amazing *Steak with Chimichurri Sauce*! I promise, it’s simpler than it sounds, and the result is utterly delicious. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal right at home!

Seasoning the Steak

First things first—let’s season that steak! I like to sprinkle both sides of the ribeye generously with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. This step is crucial because it enhances the natural flavors of the steak. Don’t skip this part! Let the seasoned steak sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly and ensures that gorgeous crust we all love!

Cooking the Steak

Now, it’s time to cook that beautiful steak! You can either grill it or pan-sear it, depending on your mood. If you’re grilling, preheat your grill to high heat. For medium-rare, you’ll want to cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side. If you prefer a well-done steak, aim for about 6-8 minutes per side. Just remember to flip it only once to get that perfect sear!

If you’re pan-searing, heat some olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add your steak and let it sizzle away! The same cooking times apply here. Once you’ve reached your desired doneness, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period is vital, as it allows the juices to redistribute for a tender, juicy bite.

Making the Chimichurri Sauce

While your steak is resting, let’s whip up the chimichurri sauce—it’s super quick! Grab your food processor and combine 1/2 cup fresh parsley, 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, 3 cloves minced garlic, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes. Pulse it a few times until it’s finely chopped. Now, while the processor is running, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth, vibrant sauce. Trust me, the fresh herbs make all the difference here!

Serving the Dish

Finally, it’s time to serve! Slice your rested steak against the grain into thick, juicy pieces. Arrange them nicely on a plate, and don’t be shy—drizzle that gorgeous chimichurri sauce all over the steak! For an extra touch, you can even garnish with a few whole herb leaves or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for color. Serve it with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s not just delicious but also looks stunning!

And there you have it! Your *Steak with Chimichurri Sauce* is ready to impress anyone lucky enough to share this meal with you. Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This *Steak with Chimichurri Sauce* isn’t just a meal; it’s a feast for the senses! Here’s why you’re going to absolutely adore making and enjoying this dish:

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious, gourmet meal ready to impress! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering.
• Vibrant Flavors: The fresh chimichurri sauce adds a zesty kick that brightens the rich, juicy steak, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh herbs and lean protein, this dish is not only satisfying but also nutritious. You can indulge without the guilt!
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the chimichurri sauce to suit your taste—add more garlic for a punch or adjust the spice level to your preference. It’s all about making it your own!
• Impressive Presentation: With its vibrant colors and beautiful plating, this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for entertaining guests or special occasions.

Once you try this recipe, I promise it’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things for this delicious *Steak with Chimichurri Sauce*. It’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body, even when you’re enjoying something so scrumptious!

Here are the estimated nutritional values per serving, which is about 1/2 lb of steak with chimichurri sauce:

• Calories: 550
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 30g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use. If you’re looking to adjust the recipe for dietary reasons, feel free to swap out ingredients or modify portions to fit your needs! Enjoy guilt-free knowing you’re fueling your body while treating your taste buds!

Tips for Success

Let’s make sure your *Steak with Chimichurri Sauce* turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my favorite tips to help you nail this dish every single time:

Resting the Steak

One of the most crucial steps is letting your steak rest after cooking. I know it can be tempting to dive right in, but trust me, giving it about 5 minutes to rest is essential! This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy steak. If you skip this step, all those flavorful juices might just spill out when you slice it, and we don’t want that!

Adjusting Spice Levels

When it comes to the chimichurri sauce, you have full control over the spice! If you’re not a fan of too much heat, feel free to dial back the 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or even leave them out entirely. On the other hand, if you love a good kick, why not add a pinch more? It’s all about finding that perfect balance for your palate. Taste as you go; it’s the best way to make it truly yours!

Storing Chimichurri Sauce

If you happen to have leftover chimichurri sauce (which I highly doubt because it’s so good!), you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using it again, as the oil may separate a bit. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in ice cube trays! That way, you can pop out a cube whenever you need a flavor boost for other dishes. It’s a game-changer!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress everyone at your next meal with this delightful *Steak with Chimichurri Sauce*! Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best parts about *Steak with Chimichurri Sauce* is how versatile it can be! If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up, here are some fantastic variations to consider:

Different Cuts of Steak

While I absolutely love ribeye for its rich flavor and tenderness, you can experiment with other cuts too! Try using sirloin for a leaner option, or flank steak for a deliciously smoky flavor. Each cut brings its own personality to the dish, so don’t be afraid to explore! Just remember that cooking times may vary based on the thickness and fat content of the steak.

Spice It Up

If you’re a spice lover, consider adding a bit more heat to your chimichurri! Adding a touch of cayenne pepper or even some chopped fresh jalapeños can elevate the flavor profile and give you that extra kick. You can also experiment with smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.

Herb Swap

While parsley and cilantro are the stars of this chimichurri, feel free to get creative with your herbs! Adding fresh oregano or thyme can bring a whole new dimension to the sauce. Just keep the proportions similar to maintain that vibrant flavor balance. You might even discover a new favorite combination!

Make It a Marinade

Why not turn your chimichurri into a marinade? Just blend it up as usual and marinate your steak for a couple of hours (or overnight, if you have the time!). This not only infuses the meat with flavor but also helps to tenderize it, resulting in an even juicier steak when cooked!

With these variations, you can keep your *Steak with Chimichurri Sauce* exciting and new every time you make it. Enjoy the adventure of cooking and don’t hesitate to make it your own!

FAQ Section

Got questions about *Steak with Chimichurri Sauce*? No worries! Here are some common queries and my answers to help you out:

Can I use other types of vinegar in the chimichurri sauce?

Absolutely! While I love the tang that red wine vinegar brings, feel free to experiment with balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar for a different flavor twist. Each type of vinegar adds its own unique character to the sauce, so choose what you love!

How do I know when my steak is done cooking?

The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 130-135°F. If you prefer medium, look for 140-145°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also use the touch test: a medium-rare steak should feel like the fleshy part of your hand when you make an “OK” sign.

Can I make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time?

You bet! Chimichurri sauce actually gets better as it sits, letting the flavors meld together beautifully. You can make it up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving!

What should I serve with my steak and chimichurri?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. You could even whip up some grilled corn or a side of rice to soak up all that delicious chimichurri sauce!

Can I use a different cut of meat instead of steak?

Definitely! While steak is the star of this dish, you can also use chicken breasts or pork chops as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, as chicken and pork require different internal temperatures to be safely cooked. The chimichurri sauce will work beautifully with other proteins too!

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