Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri

Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri: A Zesty Summer Delight 🥩🌿🔥

1. Introduction

Are you ready to elevate your grilling game and learn how to make a truly unforgettable meal? This grilled flank steak recipe, lavishly drizzled with vibrant chimichurri sauce, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to execute. Flank steak is celebrated for its robust, beefy flavor and its exceptional ability to soak up marinades, positioning it as a fantastic choice for grilling. Looking for other grilling recipes? Check out this comprehensive list! The zesty chimichurri sauce, a vibrant blend packed with fresh herbs and garlic, introduces a burst of flavor that harmoniously complements the richness of the steak. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master confidently wielding your tongs, or just starting out on your grilling journey, this chimichurri flank steak recipe is remarkably easy to follow and promises exceptional results every time. Prepare yourself to impress your family and friends with this delightful and sophisticated summer meal that’s perfect for a dinner party or even a special lunch. This recipe will guide you on how to grill flank steak to absolute perfection, ensuring a tender and juicy outcome. A properly crafted flank steak marinade is also a key element, contributing significantly to the best possible flavor and texture.

2. Ingredients Needed

Before you fire up the grill, make sure you have all the necessary components for both the steak and the chimichurri. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.5-2 lbs flank steak
• 1 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red chili, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste

3. Preparing the Flank Steak Marinade

A flavorful flank steak marinade is absolutely essential. It not only tenderizes the meat, making it incredibly juicy, but also significantly enhances the taste, infusing it with layers of deliciousness. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect marinade, the foundation of your amazing grilled flank steak recipe.

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. This aromatic blend will penetrate the steak, creating a symphony of flavors.
2. Place the flank steak in a large resealable bag or a non-reactive container (glass or plastic). Avoid using metal containers, as they can react with the acid in the marinade.
3. Pour the marinade generously over the steak, ensuring that every surface is fully coated. Massage the marinade into the meat for even distribution of flavor.
4. Seal the bag or cover the container securely, and then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best and most impactful results, marinate overnight (or even up to 24 hours) to allow the flavors to fully meld and deeply penetrate the meat. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender your flank steak will be. If you love steak you might to give a shot to Grilled Tuna steak!

4. Step-by-Step Grilling Instructions

Now that your flank steak is happily marinating, patiently absorbing all those wonderful flavors, it’s time to learn how to grill flank steak for optimal results. Achieving that perfect balance of a beautiful sear on the outside and juicy, tender inside is the key. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you achieve grilling perfection with this chimichurri flank steak recipe. Also, if you are in the mood to grill something else, take a look at theses grilled recipes.

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F or 200-230°C). Ensuring the grill is at the correct temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect sear. Make sure the grates are impeccably clean and then lightly oiled to prevent the steak from sticking. You can use a grill brush and then a paper towel dipped in oil for this.

Step 2: Grill the Flank Steak

Remove the flank steak from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Pat it meticulously dry with paper towels. This crucial step will help achieve a beautifully developed, flavorful sear on the surface of the steak. Place the steak carefully on the preheated grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. For other levels of doneness, adjust the cooking time accordingly. For medium, cook for 5-6 minutes per side, and for medium-well, cook for 6-7 minutes per side. Use a reliable meat thermometer to accurately gauge the internal temperature and ensure the steak is cooked to your preference. The internal temperature should reach 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare. Take a look at this external resource to learn more about flank steak perfectly.

Step 3: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

While the steak is grilling to perfection, take advantage of the time to prepare the vibrant and flavorful chimichurri sauce. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the fresh parsley, fresh cilantro, minced garlic, chopped red chili (if you’re using it – adjust the amount to your spice preference!), dried oregano, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure they are well combined. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to perfectly enhance the flavors. Let the sauce sit for at least 15 minutes, or even longer, to allow the flavors to meld and fully develop. This resting period is crucial for the chimichurri to reach its full potential.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Once the flank steak reaches the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the grill and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes, but preferably closer to 15 minutes, before slicing. This resting period is absolutely essential! It allows the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the steak, resulting in a significantly more tender, juicy, and flavorful steak. If you skip this step, the juices will run out as soon as you slice into it, leaving you with a drier cut of meat. Slice the steak thinly against the grain. Identifying which direction the grain runs is key to ensuring maximum tenderness. Slicing against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making the steak much easier to chew. Serve immediately, generously drizzled with the vibrant chimichurri sauce. This grilled flank steak recipe is definitely best served fresh, allowing you to fully appreciate the flavors and textures at their peak. Pair this amazing flank steak with grilled zucchini boats!

5. Tips for the Perfect Grilled Flank Steak

Here’s a recap of our top tips for achieving grilling perfection:

• Always marinate the flank steak for at least 2 hours, and preferably overnight (or even up to 24 hours) for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Pat the steak meticulously dry with paper towels before grilling to ensure a good, flavorful sear.
• Use a reliable meat thermometer to accurately gauge the internal temperature of the steak and avoid overcooking.
• Let the steak rest, tented with foil, for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
• Slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.

6. Serving Suggestions

This chimichurri flank steak is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide variety of side dishes to create a complete, satisfying meal. Consider serving it with:

• Grilled vegetables, such as colorful bell peppers, tender zucchini, and sweet corn on the cob, complement the steak beautifully.
• A fresh, vibrant salad, dressed with a light vinaigrette, provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak. Consider a Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad or even a Chopped Cobb Salad.
• Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes offer a hearty and satisfying side dish option.
• Rice or quinoa provides a simple and healthy base to soak up the delicious chimichurri sauce.
• Crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of the flavorful chimichurri sauce.

7. Variations and Additions

Feel free to customize this grilled flank steak recipe to perfectly suit your individual tastes and preferences. Here are a few creative ideas to get you started:

• Add a touch of complementary sweetness to the marinade by incorporating a tablespoon of honey or pure maple syrup.
• Spice up the chimichurri sauce even further by adding extra red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a noticeable kick.
• Experiment with different fresh herbs in the chimichurri sauce, such as fresh mint or fragrant basil, to create unique and interesting flavor profiles.
• Serve the grilled flank steak in warm tacos or fajitas, accompanied by your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and shredded cheese.

8. Health Benefits

Flank steak is a valuable source of protein, an essential nutrient for building and repairing tissues, and is also rich in iron and zinc, both of which are crucial for maintaining overall health and a strong immune system. The chimichurri sauce is packed with fresh herbs, which are brimming with vitamins, minerals, and powerful antioxidants that help protect your body against damage from free radicals. Grilling is also a healthier cooking method compared to frying, as it significantly reduces the need for added fats. Enjoy this delicious grilled flank steak recipe as a part of your balanced and nutritious diet.

9. Conclusion

This grilled flank steak recipe, paired with the zesty and vibrant chimichurri sauce, is a surefire way to impress your friends and family at your next barbecue or gathering. With its flavorful and easy-to-prepare marinade, straightforward grilling instructions, and vibrant chimichurri sauce, it’s an incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion, big or small. Now that you know exactly how to grill flank steak to absolute perfection, you can confidently add this impressive and versatile dish to your grilling repertoire. If you would like to continue expanding your recipe arsenal, check out this chicken pad thai recipe. Enjoy your perfectly grilled chimichurri flank steak – it’s a guaranteed home run!

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