There’s something magical about firing up the grill, isn’t there? The sizzle of meat hitting the hot grates, the aroma wafting through the air, and the anticipation of that first bite—it all brings a sense of joy that’s hard to beat. One of my absolute favorite dishes to prepare is Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, bursting with bold flavors that elevate any meal. Whether it’s a casual weekend barbecue or a special family gathering, this dish never fails to impress.
The flank steak, marinated to perfection, becomes tender and juicy, while the chimichurri sauce adds a fresh, zesty kick that complements the meat beautifully. I love how this dish brings people together around the table, sparking laughter and conversation. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on this flavorful journey!
Ingredients List
1 ½ pounds flank steak
2 tablespoons olive oil (for marinating)
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup olive oil (for chimichurri sauce)
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste (for chimichurri sauce)
How to Prepare Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Preparing Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce is a delightful experience that combines simple steps with bold flavors. Let’s break it down into manageable parts to ensure you achieve the best results.
Marinate the Steak
Start by marinating the flank steak, which is key to infusing flavor and tenderness. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 2 teaspoons of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Rub this mixture all over the flank steak, ensuring it’s well coated. For optimal flavor, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. This marination time allows the spices to penetrate the meat, making every bite deliciously savory.
Make the Chimichurri Sauce
While the steak is marinating, it’s time to whip up the chimichurri sauce. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of finely chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 cup of finely chopped fresh cilantro, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Pour in 1/2 cup of olive oil and 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar, then stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This vibrant sauce is what truly elevates the grilled flank steak!
Grill the Flank Steak
Now, let’s get grilling! Preheat your grill to high heat. Once it’s hot, place the marinated flank steak on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; aim for 130°F for medium-rare. After grilling, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy steak.
Slice and Serve
To serve, slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. This technique helps maintain tenderness. Drizzle the chimichurri sauce over the sliced steak or serve it on the side for dipping. Enjoy the burst of flavors that this dish brings to your table!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce, you can savor the flavors without too much guilt. Each serving contains approximately 400 calories, with 30 grams of fat, 30 grams of protein, and just 5 grams of carbohydrates. The dish is also gluten-free, making it a great option for various dietary needs. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy this delicious meal while being mindful of your nutritional intake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Bold Flavors: The combination of marinated flank steak and zesty chimichurri sauce creates a flavor explosion that will impress your guests.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.
Versatile: Perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Tips for Success
To make your Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce truly shine, here are some tips that I’ve learned over the years:
Marinate Longer: If you have the time, marinate the steak for up to 2 hours. This enhances the flavor and tenderness.
Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill to high heat. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and a nice sear.
Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
Let It Rest: Don’t skip the resting time! Letting the steak rest for 5-10 minutes keeps it juicy.
Slice Against the Grain: This technique ensures each bite is tender and easy to chew.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to grilling success!
Variations
One of the best things about Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce is its versatility. You can easily switch up the flavors to keep things exciting! Here are a few ideas:
Herb Swaps: Try using fresh mint or oregano in your chimichurri for a different herbal twist. Each herb brings its own unique flavor profile.
Spice It Up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even a diced jalapeño to the chimichurri. This will give your sauce a spicy kick!
Citrus Zing: Squeeze in some fresh lime or lemon juice to brighten the chimichurri. The acidity will enhance the overall flavor.
Smoky Flavor: For a deeper flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked salt or using smoked paprika in the marinade.
Feel free to experiment with these variations to create your perfect version of this dish!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from your Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce is simple and ensures you can enjoy this delicious meal again. First, let the steak cool to room temperature. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is key to maintaining flavor and texture. I recommend using a skillet over medium heat for the best results. Just add a splash of water or broth to the pan to keep the steak moist. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat, as it can dry out the meat. Enjoy your flavorful leftovers!
FAQ Section
Here are some common questions I often hear about making Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce:
Can I cook flank steak in the oven?
Absolutely! If grilling isn’t an option, you can broil the flank steak in your oven. Preheat the broiler, place the steak on a broiler pan, and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on your desired doneness.
What can I substitute for flank steak?
If flank steak isn’t available, you can use skirt steak or sirloin as alternatives. Both cuts will work well with the marinade and chimichurri sauce.
Can I make chimichurri sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Chimichurri sauce can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen and become even more delicious!
How do I know when the steak is done?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check doneness. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare. Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly while resting.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover flank steak. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce is a flavor-packed delight that brings bold tastes to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
1 ½ pounds flank steak
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Marinate the Steak: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the flank steak. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Make the Chimichurri Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Pour in the olive oil and red wine vinegar. Stir well to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
Grill the Flank Steak: Preheat your grill to high heat. Place the marinated flank steak on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness is reached. Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Slice and Serve: Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. Serve with chimichurri sauce drizzled on top or on the side.
