Name: Chimichurri Steak: Your Easy Ticket to Flavorful Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Ribeye or New York Strip Steaks (Aim for steaks approximately 1.5 inches thick.); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (For cooking the steak.); to taste Salt (Essential for seasoning.); to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper (Essential for seasoning.); 1 cup Fresh Parsley Leaves (Feel free to substitute with cilantro.); 3 cloves Garlic Cloves (Use more or less based on preference.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Oregano Leaves (Dried oregano can replace fresh.); 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Adds richness to the sauce.); 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar (Consider apple cider vinegar as an alternative.); 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Adjust according to preference.); to taste Salt (For seasoning the chimichurri.); to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper (For seasoning the chimichurri.)

As I stood in my kitchen last week, the sizzle of steak filling the air felt like a warm embrace on a chilly evening. The star of my culinary escape was the chimichurri steak—perfectly seared ribeye, kissed by a vibrant, garlicky chimichurri, effortlessly combining indulgence and freshness. This dish makes every meal feel like an occasion, and the best part? It’s quick and easy to prepare, ready in under an hour for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat. Rich, tender steak paired with zesty sauce not only satisfies the cravings but is also surprisingly restaurant-quality. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with this delicious chimichurri steak?

Why is Chimichurri Steak a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: Preparing this dish is a breeze, taking under an hour, perfect for any weeknight meal or last-minute gathering.

Bold Flavors: The zesty chimichurri sauce melds beautifully with the succulent steak, delivering a burst of garlic and herb flavor that elevates each bite.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve it at your next gathering and watch your friends rave about this gourmet experience – you might even want to check out some fun serving suggestions to complement your meal.

Versatile Variations: Customize it effortlessly! Swap ribeye for flank or sirloin and experiment with fresh herbs in the sauce for a unique twist.

Nutrition Boost: With lean cuts of meat and antioxidant-rich ingredients in the chimichurri, this dish is both satisfying and guilt-free, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Chimichurri Steak Ingredients

For the Steak

Ribeye or New York Strip Steaks – These cuts provide rich flavor and tenderness; aim for steaks approximately 1.5 inches thick for optimal cooking.
Olive Oil – Used for cooking the steak and making the chimichurri sauce; vegetable oil can substitute if you prefer.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning the steak; adjust the quantity to your taste.

For the Chimichurri Sauce

Fresh Parsley Leaves – Adds a vibrant flavor and color to the chimichurri; feel free to substitute with cilantro for a different twist.
Garlic Cloves – Infuses robust flavor into the chimichurri; use more or less based on your garlic preference.
Fresh Oregano Leaves – Provides herbal notes; dried oregano can replace fresh if it’s not available.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness to the chimichurri; regular olive oil gives a milder flavor.
Red Wine Vinegar – Brings acidity and brightness to the chimichurri; consider apple cider vinegar as an alternative.
Red Pepper Flakes – Give the chimichurri a gentle heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – For final seasoning of the chimichurri; taste and adjust as needed.

This ingredient list lays the foundation for your delightful chimichurri steak, making it both easy and enjoyable to whip up a restaurant-quality meal at home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chimichurri Steak

Step 1: Prepare Steaks
Begin by removing your ribeye or New York strip steaks from the refrigerator, allowing them to sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes. This step ensures even cooking throughout. As they rest, you can prepare your chimichurri sauce, which will add vibrant flavor to the finished chimichurri steak.

Step 2: Make Chimichurri Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine chopped parsley, minced garlic, fresh oregano, olive oil, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to blend all the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld together. Let the chimichurri sauce sit for at least 10 minutes while you season the steaks, giving it time to develop its zesty profile.

Step 3: Season Steaks
Gently pat your steaks dry with paper towels, which helps achieve a better crust when cooking. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper, pressing the seasoning into the meat to ensure it sticks. This vital step enhances the flavor of your chimichurri steak and prepares it for a perfect sear.

Step 4: Preheat Pan
Place a cast-iron skillet or grill pan on the stovetop over high heat. Allow it to heat for 3-5 minutes until it is very hot. Once ready, drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil into the pan, swirling it around to coat the surface until shimmering. This high heat will help form a golden-brown crust on your steak.

Step 5: Sear Steaks
Carefully place the seasoned steaks in the hot skillet and sear them without moving for 3-4 minutes. This allows a beautiful crust to form. After that time, flip the steaks using tongs and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes for medium-rare doneness. Adjust the time slightly if you prefer your steaks cooked differently.

Step 6: Rest Steaks
Once cooked to your desired doneness, transfer the steaks to a cutting board and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Let them rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender, a key characteristic of the chimichurri steak.

Step 7: Slice and Serve
After resting, slice the steaks against the grain into thick pieces for optimal tenderness. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and generously drizzle the vibrant chimichurri sauce over the top. For an extra touch, serve additional chimichurri on the side, allowing everyone to enjoy more of that zesty, garlicky goodness.

Chimichurri Steak Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own while keeping that delicious chimichurri essence intact!

Different Cuts: Swap ribeye for flank or sirloin steaks to explore variations in flavor and texture. Each cut adds its unique character to the dish.
Herb Swap: Use fresh mint or cilantro in place of parsley for a fresh spin on the chimichurri sauce. This will give your chimichurri a vibrant twist that’s refreshing and unexpected.
Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice tolerance or throw in diced jalapeños for a bolder heat that lingers on the palate.
Vinegar Variety: Experiment with different types of vinegar, like balsamic or white wine vinegar, to see how they change the brightness of your chimichurri sauce.
Nutty Addition: Add toasted nuts, like walnuts or pine nuts, to the chimichurri for an unexpected earthy crunch. This little twist provides added texture and depth of flavor.
Citrus Kick: A splash of fresh lemon or lime juice in the chimichurri will brighten the sauce, balancing the richness of the steak beautifully.
Garlic Lovers: If you adore garlic, feel free to double the amount or even roast some garlic beforehand for a sweeter, milder flavor that melds beautifully with the other ingredients.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the chimichurri for a tantalizing smoky flavor that will complement the grilled steak and add a depth of taste.

Don’t forget to check out these fun serving suggestions to bring your chimichurri steak to the next level! Use these variations to turn this delightful dish into your family’s new favorite.

Storage Tips for Chimichurri Steak

Fridge: Store leftover chimichurri steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain its tenderness and flavor.
Chimichurri Sauce: Keep chimichurri sauce in a separate airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 1 week.
Reheating: To enjoy your chimichurri steak again, warm it gently in a preheated oven at 250°F for 10-15 minutes, adding chimichurri after reheating for maximum flavor.
Freezer: While it’s not recommended to freeze chimichurri sauce, if you must freeze cooked steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then pack into an airtight container; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

What to Serve with Chimichurri Steak

Treat your taste buds to a complete dining experience with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the richness of your chimichurri steak.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, fluffy potatoes absorb the tangy chimichurri, creating a comforting harmony that elevates every bite.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender and slightly charred, asparagus adds a lovely crunch and earthy flavor, enhancing the steak’s richness.
Garlic Bread: The crispy, crusty exterior with aromatic garlic and herbs is perfect for soaking up any leftover chimichurri sauce.
Refreshing Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette brightens up the meal, offering a fresh contrast to the steak.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini, roasted to sweetness, create a colorful, nutritious side that balances flavors beautifully.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the savory steak, and the soft texture adds welcome variety on your plate.
Red Wine: Opt for a smooth Malbec or robust Cabernet Sauvignon that complements the steak’s flavors while adding warmth to your dinner.
Chocolate Fondue: End your meal on a sweet note with rich chocolate fondue, providing a delightful contrast to the savory steak.

Expert Tips for Chimichurri Steak

Room Temperature Steaks: Allow your steaks to rest at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.
Hot Skillet Essential: Make sure your skillet is very hot before adding the steaks; this prevents the meat from steaming and promotes a perfect, crisp crust.
Don’t Rush the Resting: After cooking, let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes under foil; this crucial step redistributes juices and keeps your chimichurri steak juicy.
Chimichurri Freshness: Avoid freezing the chimichurri sauce as fresh herbs will lose their vibrant texture; store it in the refrigerator to maintain flavor.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings to your liking, especially the salt and pepper in both the steak and chimichurri sauce; personal preference can make a big difference!
Slice Against the Grain: For tender slices, cut the steak against the grain; this technique breaks up the muscle fibers for a better bite.

Make Ahead Options

These chimichurri steaks are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chimichurri sauce up to 1 day in advance and store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld beautifully. Simply mix together the chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, olive oil, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in an airtight container, ensuring it stays fresh. The steaks can be seasoned and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking—this not only saves you time but helps deepen the flavor. When you’re ready to serve, just let the steaks rest at room temperature for 30 minutes and sear them in a hot skillet. You’ll have a restaurant-quality chimichurri steak ready to impress with minimal effort!

Chimichurri Steak Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for chimichurri steak?
Absolutely! For the freshest chimichurri, choose bright green, crisp parsley leaves without any dark spots, which indicate age. Garlic should be firm and papery, while the steak should look moist and bright red, ideally around 1.5 inches thick for optimal cooking.

What’s the best way to store leftover chimichurri steak?
Very! Store leftover chimichurri steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To keep it fresh, it’s best to keep the chimichurri sauce in a separate container, where it can last on its own for up to 1 week.

Can I freeze chimichurri sauce?
I recommend against freezing chimichurri sauce as fresh herbs lose their texture when frozen. However, if you must freeze cooked steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, place it in a freezer-safe bag, and it can last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

What should I do if my chimichurri sauce is too salty?
No worries! If your chimichurri sauce turns out too salty, you can balance it by adding more fresh parsley and a splash of vinegar. Blend in a bit of diced tomato or cucumber as well; these will absorb some salt and enhance the flavor without overpowering it.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for chimichurri steak?
Very much so! If guests have allergies, be mindful of using gluten-free vinegar alternatives if necessary. The chimichurri contains fresh herbs, which might cause issues for individuals with sensitivities. Always ask about dietary restrictions before serving.

How can I serve chimichurri steak at gatherings?
Oh, the options are endless! Prepare a platter featuring sliced chimichurri steak beautifully arranged with additional sauce on the side. Pair it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread for a delightful experience your guests will love!