Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chimichurri Flank Steak recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or a celebratory weekend dinner. Tender, juicy flank steak is elevated to new heights with a vibrant, herbaceous chimichurri sauce. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that's sure to become a family favorite. This easy recipe is perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes without sacrificing flavor or health. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
For the Flank Steak:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup packed fresh parsley leaves
- 1/2 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili pepper, finely chopped (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Preparing the Flank Steak:
- Pat the flank steak dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; medium-rare is around 130-135°F.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender steak.
Making the Chimichurri Sauce:
- While the steak rests, prepare the chimichurri sauce. Combine all the ingredients in a food processor or blender.
- Pulse until finely chopped but not completely pureed; you want some texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more vinegar for tanginess, olive oil for richness, or chili for heat.
Serving:
- Once the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain.
- Generously top the sliced steak with the chimichurri sauce.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, grilled corn on the cob, or a simple salad. This healthy meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more elaborate weekend feast.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the steak! Flank steak is best served medium-rare to medium. Overcooking will make it tough.
- Let the steak rest: This crucial step ensures a juicy and tender outcome.
- Adjust the chimichurri to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and chili levels.
- Make it ahead: The chimichurri sauce can be made a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Variations:
- Grilled Flank Steak: Grill the steak over medium-high heat for a smoky flavor.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil, mint, or oregano in addition to or instead of parsley and cilantro.
- Citrus Infusion: Add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice to the chimichurri for extra brightness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This Chimichurri Flank Steak recipe is a perfect example of how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Enjoy!