If you’re searching for a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious, look no further, Marinated Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce is your go-to recipe. This delectable dish is a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave everyone at your dinner table in awe.
Not only is this dish a treat for the taste buds, but it’s also a feast for the eyes. The beautifully grilled flank steak, sliced to reveal its juicy interior, topped with the vibrant green chimichurri sauce is a true spectacle.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a romantic meal, or simply want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal at home, Marinated Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce is a recipe that delivers on all fronts. So, put on your chef’s hat and get ready to impress with a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is mouthwateringly delicious.
How to Choose the Best Flank Steak?
Choosing the best flank steak is crucial to achieving a tender and flavorful dish. Here are some tips to help you select the best cut of meat:
- Look for Even Thickness: Flank steak is a relatively thin cut of beef, but it should be even in thickness throughout. This ensures that the steak cooks evenly, preventing one part from becoming overcooked while another is undercooked.
- Check the Color: A good quality flank steak should be a vibrant red color. If the meat is brown or has a dull appearance, it may not be fresh.
- Examine the Marbling: While flank steak is a lean cut of meat, it should still have some marbling — thin streaks of fat running through the meat. The marbling contributes to the flavor and tenderness of the steak when cooked. However, large chunks of fat are not desirable.
- Size Matters: Think about how many people you’ll be feeding. A typical flank steak weighs between 1 and 2 pounds, which should feed around 4 to 6 people.
- Buy From a Trusted Butcher or Supplier: Where you buy your meat can make a significant difference in the quality of the steak. Try to buy from a trusted butcher or a reputable grocery store. You could also consider purchasing from sustainable, organic producers for higher-quality meat.
- Ask for Advice: Don’t hesitate to ask your butcher for advice. They’re often more than happy to guide you in choosing the best cut of meat for your needs. Tell them what you’re planning to cook, and they can recommend the best options.
Remember, the quality of your ingredients plays a major role in the success of your dish. Take the time to choose the best flank steak, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious, tender, and flavorful meal.
Why Pair it with Chimichurri Sauce?
Marinated Flank Steak paired with Chimichurri Sauce is a match made in culinary heaven for several reasons.
Firstly, the flank steak is a lean, somewhat tough cut of beef that responds beautifully to marination. The process of marinating helps tenderize the meat while also infusing it with flavor. When cooked correctly, the flank steak can be incredibly juicy and flavorful.
Secondly, chimichurri sauce, a staple in Argentinian cuisine, is a vibrant blend of fresh parsley, garlic, vinegar, and oil. This zesty, herbaceous sauce is the perfect counterpoint to the rich, savory flavors of the marinated flank steak. It adds a bright freshness and tangy kick that cuts through the richness of the meat, creating a delicious balance of flavors.
Moreover, the combination is not just tasty but also visually appealing. The bold green color of the chimichurri sauce contrasts beautifully with the seared brown steak, making this dish a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
So, whether you’re looking for a new BBQ favorite or a dinner party showstopper, Marinated Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce delivers on all fronts. It’s a pairing that promises a flavorful adventure with every bite.
What are the ingredients to make Marinated Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce?
This recipe can be prepared in 10 minutes with additional time to marinate. Cook this for 10 minutes.
Here are the ingredients for 4 servings.
Chimichurri Sauce
- Extra virgin olive oil-flavor carrier and texture enhancer
Red wine vinegar- It adds tanginess and balances flavors. - Fresh flat-leaf parsley- Adds robust flavor and nutrients.
- Fresh cilantro- It provides a fresh, citrusy flavor.
- Cloves Fresh garlic, peeled- Adds depth and pungency.
- Crushed red pepper flakes- They add a touch of heat.
- Fresh lemon juice- It adds acidity and freshness.
- Ground cumin- Adds an earthy flavor.
- Salt and pepper- Enhance flavors.
Remaining Ingredients
- Extra virgin olive oil- Tenderizes and enriches meat.
- Fresh lime juice- Lime juice tenderizes and adds flavor.
- Cloves fresh garlic, chopped- Enhances flavor and tenderizes steak.
- Salt and pepper- Enhance flavors.
- Flank steak, sliced into thin strips- The main ingredient.
How to make Marinated Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce?
It’s time to put this recipe together now that you’ve gathered all of your ingredients.
- Blend olive oil, vinegar, parsley, cilantro, garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and cumin in a food processor until smooth for the Chimichurri sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper and set aside.
- For the steak marinade, mix olive oil, lime juice, and chopped garlic in a small bowl, seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Marinate the flank steak by placing it in a sealable plastic bag with the oil mixture. Make sure the steak is well-coated by turning the bag a few times. Refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight.
- When ready to cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Shake off excess marinade from the steak before adding it to the hot skillet. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust time for preferred doneness.
- Once cooked, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain and serve with a drizzle of Chimichurri sauce. Provide extra sauce for those who want more. Enjoy your meal!
How to Serve the Marinated Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce?
Serving Marinated Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce is all about presentation and pairing. Here’s how you can do it:
- Slice the Steak: After grilling, let your flank steak rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Slice the steak thinly against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the lines or fibers in the meat, making it more tender and easier to chew.
- Present the Sauce: Drizzle some of the chimichurri sauce over the sliced steak just before serving. You can also serve extra sauce on the side for those who want more. The vibrant green of the chimichurri not only adds a punch of flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.
- Side Dishes: Pair the marinated flank steak with sides that complement its flavors. Traditional options include roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a low-carb option, consider serving it with cauliflower rice or a big green salad. A crusty baguette would also be great for sopping up the extra chimichurri sauce.
- Wine Pairing: If you’re serving wine, choose one that complements the rich flavors of the marinated steak and chimichurri sauce. A medium-bodied red like a Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon works well.
- Garnish: For a final touch, garnish the dish with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) or a squeeze of lime.
Remember, the goal is to create a balance of flavors and textures that highlight the star of your meal—the marinated flank steak with chimichurri sauce.
Marinated Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Marinated Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce is a flavorful and tantalizing dish that brings together the robust flavors of a well-marinated, juicy flank steak with the bright, tangy taste of chimichurri sauce
Ingredients
Chimichurri Sauce
- ½ c. extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 c. red wine vinegar
- 1 c. fresh flat-leaf parsley
- 1/3 c. fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, peeled
- ¾ t. crushed red pepper flakes
- 3 T. fresh lemon juice
- 1 t. ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Remaining Ingredients
- ¼ c. extra virgin olive oil
- 3 T. fresh lime juice
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1½ lbs. flank steak, sliced into thin strips
- 1 T. extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Combine the olive oil, vinegar, parsley, cilantro, garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and cumin in a food processor and blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and set aside.
- In a small glass bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, and chopped garlic with a fork. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
- Place the flank steak in a large, sealable plastic bag and add the olive oil mixture. Tightly seal the bag and turn a couple times to coat the steak in the marinade. Place in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to overnight.
- To prepare, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and allow excess to drip off before adding to the hot skillet. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes, then turn and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes for medium-rare results. Adjust cooking times to reach the desired level of doneness.
- Remove from heat and transfer steak to a cutting surface. Let rest for 5 minutes before cutting into very thin slices against the grain. To serve, drizzle steak with some Chimichurri sauce and pass remaining sauce for those who prefer a little more. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 741Total Fat: 59gSaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 43gCholesterol: 134mgSodium: 262mgCarbohydrates: 5gFiber: 2gSugar: 1gProtein: 48g
These nutritional calculations might not be accurate. Please speak with a licensed nutritionist to assist you.