Looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution? Try this easy grilled flank steak with homemade chimichurri sauce, a flavorful family favorite made with fresh herbs, perfect for a healthy dinner, save for later

Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce: A Simple Healthy Dinner Recipe

Introduction

Imagine a warm summer evening, the grill is fired up, and the aroma of sizzling steak fills the air. Paired with a vibrant and tangy chimichurri sauce, this grilled flank steak recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a testament to the simplicity and elegance of using everyday ingredients to create something extraordinary. The beauty of this dish lies in its balance of flavors, the ease of preparation, and the impressive results it yields with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to delight and inspire, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of simple yet healthy dinner recipes.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of grilled flank steak and chimichurri sauce offers a harmonious balance of smoky, tangy, and herby flavors, all achievable with readily available ingredients.
Ease of preparation: The steps involved are straightforward, requiring minimal cooking techniques and preparation time, making it an ideal choice for a quick and healthy dinner.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the presentation and flavors of this dish are impressive, perfect for both family dinners and special occasions.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include a flank steak, fresh parsley, oregano, garlic, red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. For the chimichurri sauce, you can also consider substituting parsley with basil or cilantro for a different twist, and adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes according to your desired level of spiciness. The flank steak, with its robust flavor and firm texture, is ideal for grilling and soaking up the flavorful chimichurri sauce.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preparing the chimichurri sauce. In a food processor, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Process until the mixture is well combined and the herbs are finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly pour in red wine vinegar and olive oil through the top. Continue processing until the sauce is well emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 2: Prepare the flank steak for grilling. Trim any excess fat if necessary. Season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130-135°F (54-57°C). Once cooked, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
Step 3: While the steak is resting, prepare any additional elements for serving, such as grilled vegetables or warm bread. This step allows you to add layers of flavor and texture to your dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Step 4: To serve, slice the rested steak into thin strips. Place the steak on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the chimichurri sauce over the steak, making sure each piece is well coated. Serve immediately, accompanied by your choice of sides, and enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of this simple yet satisfying dish.

Handy Tips

When making the chimichurri sauce, don’t overprocess the herbs, as this can make the sauce bitter. Stop processing once the herbs are finely chopped and the sauce is emulsified.
For a more intense flavor, let the chimichurri sauce sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Always let the steak rest before slicing to ensure the juices redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial when grilling the flank steak. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a surface temperature of around 400-450°F (200-230°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the steak reaches a safe internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C), medium at 140-145°F (60-63°C), and medium-well or well-done at 150°F (66°C) or above. Always use tongs or a spatula to handle the steak, and avoid pressing down on the steak with your spatula, as this can squeeze out juices and make the steak tough.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the fresh herbs in the chimichurri sauce and any additional crunchy elements you choose to serve alongside, such as toasted bread or crispy grilled vegetables. To achieve a nice crunch, ensure that your herbs are fresh and not wilted. For toasted bread, simply slice a baguette, drizzle with olive oil, and toast until crispy. Grilled vegetables can be tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grilled until they have a nice char and crunch.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Marinate the steak: While the recipe doesn’t call for a marinade, consider marinating the flank steak in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours or overnight for added depth of flavor.
Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients, especially the freshness of the herbs and the grade of the steak, will significantly impact the final flavor and texture of your dish.
Cleanup as you go: To make the cooking process more manageable and reduce cleanup time, clean and chop ingredients, and wash utensils and dishes as you go.

Storage Tips

Leftover steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to prevent drying out the steak.
Chimichurri sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
For freezing, place the chimichurri sauce in an ice cube tray, freeze, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Frozen sauce cubes are perfect for adding flavor to future meals.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this recipe, perhaps as part of a dinner gift basket or a homemade sauce collection, chimichurri sauce is perfectly suited for gifting. Transfer the sauce to decorative jars, secure the lids, and wrap with a ribbon or twine. You can include a gift tag with the recipe for the grilled flank steak and suggestions for using the chimichurri sauce with other dishes. For a more elaborate gift, pair the sauce with a nicely wrapped flank steak, a baguette, and a selection of cheeses for a complete dinner package.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Experiment with different spice blends, such as adding a pinch of cumin for a smoky flavor or a bit of smoked paprika for a BBQ-like taste.
🌟 Creative toppings: Consider adding some creative toppings to your steak, such as caramelized onions, roasted bell peppers, or a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: For a vegetarian version, swap the steak with portobello mushrooms or eggplant, and adjust the grilling time accordingly. You can also experiment with different types of steak or proteins for varied flavors and textures.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If your steak turns out tough, it may be overcooked. Ensure you’re cooking to the right internal temperature, and let the steak rest before slicing.
Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find flank steak, consider using skirt steak or ribeye. For the chimichurri, basil or cilantro can replace parsley, and lemon juice can substitute for red wine vinegar in a pinch.
Over/undercooking signs: Pay attention to the steak’s color and texture. A medium-rare steak will feel soft and springy to the touch, with a pink color in the center. Avoid pressing on the steak too much, as this can make it tough.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, both the cooked steak and the chimichurri sauce can be frozen. Freeze the sauce in ice cube trays for easy future use, and slice the cooked steak before freezing for convenient reheating.
Is it gluten-free? This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, such as bread served on the side, are also gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, this recipe can be easily doubled or tripled for larger gatherings. Just keep an eye on the steak’s cooking time, as larger quantities may require a bit more time on the grill.

Conclusion

Grilled flank steak with chimichurri sauce is a recipe that embodies the spirit of simple, healthy, and flavorful cooking. With its vibrant herby sauce and the smoky char of the grilled steak, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and techniques to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations and adaptations with friends and family. The joy of cooking lies not just in the eating, but in the sharing and the love that goes into preparing a meal for others. So, go ahead, fire up your grill, and let the delicious journey begin!