When you think of culinary delights, the sizzle of a perfectly cooked skirt steak with chimichurri is likely to dance in your mind like a tango on a sunny Buenos Aires street. The vibrant flavors of the chimichurri sauce, with its fresh herbs and zesty garlic, complement the tender beef in a way that makes your taste buds do the cha-cha. Imagine biting into juicy, marinated meat while the aroma wafts through the air, making every mouthful feel like an indulgent fiesta.
Now, picture this: you’re gathered with friends at a backyard barbecue, laughter fills the air as you unveil this show-stopping dish. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone together. Memories are made over shared plates and clinking glasses as you all dig into this flavorful wonder. Skirt steak with chimichurri is perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners alike—every bite promises to ignite joy and satisfaction.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Skirt steak with chimichurri is easy to prepare and bursts with flavor that will impress anyone at your dinner table
- The vivid colors of chimichurri make for an eye-catching presentation that’s sure to wow your guests
- You can customize the chimichurri ingredients based on what you have available or your personal taste preferences
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for pan-searing or broiling in colder months!
Ingredients for Skirt Steak with Chimichurri
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Skirt Steak: Choose a well-marbled skirt steak for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Fresh Parsley: Use flat-leaf parsley for its bright flavor and vibrant green color.
Fresh Oregano: Fresh oregano adds a punch of herbaceous flavor; dried can be used in a pinch.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic gives the chimichurri its signature zing; use more if you’re feeling bold!
Red Wine Vinegar: This adds acidity that balances out the richness of the steak beautifully.
Olive Oil: A quality extra virgin olive oil enhances both flavor and texture in the sauce.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but they add a nice kick if you’re looking to spice things up!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Skirt Steak with Chimichurri
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Skirt Steak
Begin by placing your skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour half of your prepared chimichurri sauce over it and let it marinate for at least one hour—two hours is even better if you want those flavors to really penetrate into the meat!
Step 2: Prepare Your Chimichurri
In a food processor, combine fresh parsley, oregano, garlic cloves, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and red pepper flakes if using. Pulse until everything is finely chopped but still has some texture. Set aside half for serving later.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
Fire up your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). If you’re using a cast-iron skillet indoors, preheat it over medium-high heat until it’s hot enough that water droplets sizzle when they hit it.
Step 4: Cook the Steak
Remove your skirt steak from its marinade and let any excess drip off. Grill each side for about three to four minutes or until it reaches your desired doneness (medium-rare is usually best).
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Let the cooked steak rest on a cutting board for five minutes before slicing against the grain—this keeps it tender and juicy!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer slices onto plates and drizzle generously with the reserved chimichurri sauce for that final touch of flavor magic. Enjoy every succulent bite alongside grilled veggies or crusty bread!
Now that you’ve mastered how to whip up skirt steak with chimichurri like a pro chef (or at least someone who really knows their way around a grill), gather friends and family around! With each slice of flavorful meat drizzled in herbaceous goodness, prepare for compliments flying around as fast as those grilled steaks!
You Must Know
- Skirt steak with chimichurri is not just a dish; it’s an experience
- This vibrant and zesty recipe elevates your dinner game while being simple enough for any skill level
- Perfect for gatherings, it promises to impress everyone at the table with its bold flavors
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the skirt steak in chimichurri for at least 30 minutes. Sear the steak on high heat for a few minutes on each side, allowing it to develop a beautiful crust. Let it rest while you whip up additional chimichurri as a topping.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your chimichurri by adding extra spices like smoked paprika or swapping parsley for cilantro. You can also experiment with different vinegar types or add a splash of lime juice for an extra zing.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover skirt steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain tenderness, and drizzle some fresh chimichurri on top before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your skirt steak rest after cooking; this helps redistribute juices for maximum flavor
- Use high heat when searing to achieve that perfect crust without overcooking
- Don’t skip marinating—this step infuses the meat with incredible flavor and tenderness
I remember the first time I served skirt steak with chimichurri at a family barbecue; my cousin declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” I thought, “Well, that’s one way to steal the show!”
FAQs:
What is Skirt Steak with Chimichurri?
Skirt steak with chimichurri is a flavorful dish that combines a tender cut of beef known as skirt steak with a vibrant, herb-based sauce called chimichurri. This Argentine sauce typically includes parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil, which enhance the rich flavor of the grilled steak. The combination of the juicy meat and zesty sauce makes this dish a favorite for barbecues and family gatherings.
How do I cook skirt steak for the best results?
To achieve the best results when cooking skirt steak, start by marinating it for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. This helps to tenderize the meat and infuse flavors. Grill or pan-sear over high heat for about 3-5 minutes per side, depending on your preferred doneness. Allow it to rest before slicing against the grain for maximum tenderness. Pairing it with chimichurri elevates its taste.
Can I use other cuts of meat instead of skirt steak?
While skirt steak is ideal due to its flavor and texture, you can substitute other cuts like flank steak or sirloin if needed. Flank steak offers a similar taste profile but may require slightly different cooking times. Regardless of the cut you choose, ensure you slice against the grain for optimal tenderness and serve it with chimichurri to maintain that vibrant taste.
What are some side dishes to serve with skirt steak and chimichurri?
When serving skirt steak with chimichurri, consider pairing it with sides that complement its bold flavors. Popular choices include grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa to balance the meal. These sides enhance the dining experience while allowing the skirt steak’s richness to shine through.
Conclusion for Skirt Steak with Chimichurri:
In summary, skirt steak with chimichurri is a delightful dish that brings together tender beef and a zesty herb sauce. By following simple cooking techniques and selecting complementary sides, you can create an impressive meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you grill it for a summer barbecue or enjoy it on a cozy night in, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite. Don’t forget to slice against the grain for that ultimate tenderness!
Skirt Steak with Chimichurri
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Skirt steak with chimichurri is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines juicy, marinated skirt steak with a zesty herb sauce. This Argentine classic brings together the rich taste of tender beef and the fresh flavors of parsley, garlic, and olive oil, making it perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners. With its eye-catching presentation and mouthwatering taste, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and create unforgettable memories around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb skirt steak
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the Skirt Steak: Place skirt steak in a resealable bag and pour half of the chimichurri over it. Marinate for at least 1 hour.
- 2. Prepare Chimichurri: In a food processor, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and red pepper flakes. Pulse until finely chopped but not pureed. Set aside half for serving.
- 3. Preheat Grill: Heat grill to medium-high (400°F).
- 4. Cook the Steak: Remove steak from marinade; grill for 3-4 minutes per side until desired doneness.
- 5. Rest and Slice: Let steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- 6. Serve: Drizzle reserved chimichurri over sliced steak and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Argentine
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe (150g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
