Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, delicious, and surprisingly easy meal? Look no further! This flank steak chimichurri recipe is your answer. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a flavorful homemade meal. Get ready for a burst of fresh herbs and zesty flavors that will tantalize your taste buds! This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients:
For the Flank Steak:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup packed fresh parsley leaves
- ½ cup packed fresh cilantro leaves
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 red chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Preparing the Flank Steak:
- Pat the flank steak dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a good sear.
- Rub the steak generously with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, until a nice crust forms.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F for medium-rare (use a meat thermometer for accuracy). Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steak.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 10-15 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. You might want more vinegar for tanginess or chili flakes for heat.
Serving:
- Once the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain.
- Generously spoon the chimichurri sauce over the sliced steak.
- Serve immediately and enjoy! This delicious dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or even some crusty bread for dipping in the leftover sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Flank Steak:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steak. Overcrowding will lower the temperature and prevent proper searing.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Let it rest: Allowing the steak to rest is crucial for tenderness. The juices redistribute, making it more flavorful and juicy.
Variations:
- Add some citrus: A squeeze of lime or lemon juice in the chimichurri sauce adds a refreshing zing.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or chives to the chimichurri.
- Spice it up: For a spicier kick, add more chili flakes or a diced jalapeño to the chimichurri.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This easy recipe delivers a healthy and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion. The vibrant flavors of the chimichurri sauce complement the tender flank steak beautifully, making this a dish you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy!