Chimichurri Steak

Published: January 21, 2026

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful Chimichurri Sauce: The fresh herbs and garlic create a zesty sauce that enhances the steak’s taste.
Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Versatile Dish: This chimichurri steak pairs well with various sides like grilled vegetables or rice, making it suitable for any occasion.
Perfectly Cooked Steak: The method ensures your steak is juicy and tender every time.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the chimichurri sauce make for an eye-catching dish that will impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results when making your chimichurri steak, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast-iron skillet or grill pan
Medium bowl
Paper towels
Cutting board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Cast-iron skillet or grill pan: This tool provides excellent heat retention for a perfect sear on the steak.
Medium bowl: Ideal for mixing your chimichurri sauce without making a mess.
Paper towels: Useful for drying the steaks before cooking to ensure a better crust forms.
Knife: A sharp knife will help you slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Ingredients

For the Steak

2 ribeye or New York strip steaks, about 1.5 inches thick
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Chimichurri Sauce

1 cup fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp fresh oregano leaves, finely chopped (or 1 tbsp dried oregano if fresh isn’t available)
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp red apple vinegar
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Chimichurri Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Steaks

Remove steaks from the refrigerator 30-45 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. This helps them cook evenly.

Step 2: Make the Chimichurri Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine:
1. Parsley, garlic, and oregano.
2. Add in the olive oil, red apple vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir well to blend all ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes (up to an hour) for flavors to meld.

Step 3: Season the Steaks

Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove moisture. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper, pressing it into the meat.

Step 4: Heat Your Pan

Place a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat for about 3-5 minutes until very hot. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, swirling to coat evenly. The oil should shimmer but not smoke excessively.

Step 5: Sear the Steaks

Carefully place steaks in the hot pan:
1. Sear without moving for 3-4 minutes until a deep golden-brown crust forms.
2. Flip steaks and cook another 3-4 minutes on the other side for medium-rare (adjust as needed).

Step 6: Resting Time

Transfer steaks to a cutting board and loosely cover with foil. Allow resting for 5-10 minutes to redistribute juices.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

After resting, slice steaks against the grain into 1/4-inch thick slices. Arrange on plates and drizzle generously with chimichurri sauce.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Serve immediately with extra chimichurri sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious chimichurri steak!

How to Serve Chimichurri Steak

Chimichurri steak is a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the steak.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus provide a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the herbaceous chimichurri sauce.

Accompany with Rice or Quinoa

Fluffy rice or protein-packed quinoa can absorb the delicious chimichurri sauce, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Add Crusty Bread

Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover chimichurri sauce on the plate. It’s an excellent way to enjoy every bit of flavor.

Garnish with Avocado

Slices of creamy avocado add richness and balance out the acidity of the chimichurri sauce for a delightful contrast.

Offer Extra Chimichurri Sauce

Serving extra chimichurri sauce on the side allows guests to customize their dishes according to their taste preferences.

How to Perfect Chimichurri Steak

To ensure your chimichurri steak turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

Select Quality Meat: Use fresh, high-quality steaks for the best flavor and tenderness. Look for marbling for added juiciness.
Marinate Longer: For a deeper flavor, allow the steaks to marinate in half of the chimichurri sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Ensure Proper Heat: Make sure your skillet or grill pan is adequately heated before adding the steaks. This helps achieve a nice sear and crust.
Rest After Cooking: Letting the cooked steaks rest for several minutes allows juices to redistribute, leading to a more tender bite.
Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain helps break down muscle fibers, resulting in more tender slices of steak.

Best Side Dishes for Chimichurri Steak

Chimichurri steak pairs excellently with various side dishes. Here are some perfect options to complement your meal:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic create a comforting side that balances the herbs in chimichurri.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized offer a deliciously sweet contrast to savory steak flavors.
Coleslaw
A crisp coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, brightening up your plate while harmonizing well with rich meat.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn grilled until charred enhances summer vibes and provides a burst of sweetness alongside your steak.
Sautéed Green Beans
Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic make a fresh and vibrant addition that complements both flavor and texture.
Couscous Salad
A light couscous salad mixed with diced vegetables and herbs offers a refreshing contrast to rich chimichurri steak.
Baked Potatoes
Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream or chives are classic sides that never disappoint when paired with steak.
Quinoa Pilaf
A flavorful quinoa pilaf loaded with herbs provides a nutritious base that absorbs all the delicious juices from your steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking the perfect chimichurri steak can be easy, but there are a few common pitfalls to avoid.

Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the steak adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always make sure to generously season both sides of your steak with salt and pepper before cooking.
Skipping room temperature: Cooking cold steaks straight from the fridge can result in uneven cooking. Allow your steaks to sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before you start cooking.
Ignoring resting time: Cutting into your steak right away can cause juices to run out. Let your steak rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to ensure juicy slices.
Overcooking or undercooking: Not monitoring the cooking time can lead to steaks that are either too tough or too rare. Use a meat thermometer to check for desired doneness.
Rushing chimichurri sauce: Making chimichurri sauce quickly might not allow the flavors to meld properly. Set it aside for at least 10 minutes at room temperature before serving.
Using low-quality oil: The flavor of the olive oil significantly impacts your chimichurri sauce. Always opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover chimichurri steak in an airtight container.
The steak will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chimichurri Steak

Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chimichurri Steak

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover it with foil; heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate, covering them with a damp paper towel. Heat in short increments of 30 seconds until warm, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Sear each side of the steak for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have more questions about preparing chimichurri steak, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

What is Chimichurri Steak?

Chimichurri steak refers to grilled beef that is topped or marinated with chimichurri sauce—a vibrant blend of herbs, garlic, and vinegar.

How do I make Chimichurri Sauce?

To make chimichurri sauce, mix finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, olive oil, red apple vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper together until well combined.

Can I use other cuts of meat?

Yes! While ribeye and New York strip steaks work best, you can also use flank steak or even chicken and turkey as alternatives for this recipe.

How should I serve Chimichurri Steak?

Serve chimichurri steak sliced against the grain on a platter with extra chimichurri sauce on the side for dipping. It pairs well with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.

Is Chimichurri Sauce spicy?

Chimichurri sauce has a mild kick from red pepper flakes; however, you can adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance or omit them altogether.

Final Thoughts

Chimichurri steak is not only delicious but also versatile. The flavorful herb sauce elevates any cut of meat while adding freshness. Feel free to customize your chimichurri by experimenting with different herbs or spices—this recipe is just the beginning!

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