Authentic Argentinian Chimichurri Steak Recipe – Grilled Perfection

Argentinian Chimichurri Steak – Few dishes capture the spirit of Argentine cuisine better than Argentinian Chimichurri Steak — a juicy, flame-grilled cut of beef served with a vibrant, herb-packed sauce that bursts with flavor. In Argentina, steak is not just a meal; it’s a cultural experience. Every weekend, families and friends gather around the asado (grill) to enjoy perfectly cooked steaks, sausages, and ribs, accompanied by the country’s iconic chimichurri sauce.

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Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Active Time: 15 minutes

• Resting Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Cuisines

Argentinian / Latin American

Course

Main Course / Dinner

Servings

4 servings

Calories

Approximately 520 calories per serving

Equipment

• Grill or cast-iron skillet

• Sharp chef’s knife

• Cutting board

• Mixing bowl

• Whisk or spoon

• Tongs

• Meat thermometer

Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 1 ½ pounds (700g) flank steak or skirt steak

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon coarse salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano (or 2 teaspoons dried oregano)

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for extra tang)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Nutrition Facts

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Add red wine vinegar, lemon juice (if using), salt, and black pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the ingredients are well combined and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired — more vinegar for tang, more pepper flakes for heat.

Cover and let the sauce rest for at least 15–20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For deeper flavor, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak

Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. Allowing the meat to warm slightly helps it cook evenly and develop a good sear.

Step 3: Grill or Pan-Sear the Steak

• For grilling: Preheat your grill to high heat (around 450–500°F / 230–260°C). Once hot, place the steak directly over the flame. Grill for about 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare or until your desired doneness.

• For stovetop: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add a drizzle of oil, then place the steak in the pan. Sear for 4–5 minutes per side, pressing gently to ensure even contact.

Check doneness with a meat thermometer:

• Rare: 125°F (52°C)

• Medium-rare: 135°F (57°C)

• Medium: 145°F (63°C)

Step 4: Rest the Steak

Once cooked, transfer the steak to a cutting board and loosely cover it with foil. Let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and tender.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness. Spoon a generous amount of chimichurri sauce over the top, and serve the rest on the side. The vibrant green sauce not only adds color but also infuses every bite with a burst of fresh flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Argentinian Chimichurri Steak

1. Use the right cut: Flank, skirt, or ribeye steak are ideal. These cuts have bold flavor and hold up well to grilling.

2. Don’t skip resting time: It’s crucial for a juicy, tender result.

3. Adjust the chimichurri to your taste: Add more garlic for intensity or more vinegar for brightness.

4. Make the sauce ahead: Chimichurri tastes even better the next day after the herbs infuse the oil and vinegar.

5. Add a smoky touch: If grilling indoors, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce to mimic the charred flavor of an outdoor grill.

Conclusion

Argentinian Chimichurri Steak represents everything wonderful about Argentine cuisine — simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a deep love for grilling. The pairing of smoky, perfectly seared beef with a bright and tangy herb sauce creates a culinary harmony that’s both refreshing and satisfying.