Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri is a flavorful Argentinian classic that showcases the vibrant and bold flavors of South America. This dish combines succulent skirt steak with a zesty chimichurri sauce, resulting in a culinary experience that is nothing short of incredible. Imagine biting into a juicy piece of grilled meat, perfectly marinated and topped with a herbaceous sauce that dances on your taste buds. It’s not just a meal; it’s an unforgettable journey. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor it delivers. The skirt steak, known for its rich meatiness, serves as the perfect canvas for the chimichurri, which is crafted from fresh herbs, garlic, and an array of spices. If you’re someone who loves grilling, this dish offers an amazing opportunity to impress your family and friends. Not only will they appreciate the taste, but they’ll also marvel at the authenticity of this Argentinian favorite. This dish is ideal for summer barbecues, family dinners, or casual get-togethers. The wonderful combination of the smoky skirt steak and the tangy chimichurri will leave everyone wanting more. Throughout this guide, you’ll learn why this recipe is worth your time, how to prepare and cook it perfectly, and tips for serving it in a way that will wow your guests. Let’s explore the flavorful world of Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri captivates the palate in numerous ways. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Quick Preparation: The marinade takes mere minutes to prepare, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: Each bite of skirt steak infused with chimichurri provides a burst of flavors that will delight your senses.
- Health-Conscious Choice: The chimichurri sauce is made primarily with fresh herbs and olive oil, making it a healthful addition to your meal.
- Versatile Dish: It pairs well with various sides, including grilled vegetables, rice, or fresh salads.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant green color of the chimichurri sauce over the grilled meat makes for a striking plate.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Cook this dish for friends and family to impress all who enjoy a good barbecue.
- Easily Scalable: You can adjust the quantity of the marinade and steak to accommodate any number of guests.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Getting the Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri ready will take about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Here’s the breakdown:- Preparation Time: 15 minutes (for the marinade and steak prep)
- Marinade Time: 1 hour (to let flavors meld)
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (for grilling the steak)
Ingredients
- For the Marinade:
- 2 pounds skirt steak
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Chimichurri:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating a delicious Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri is as simple as following these steps:- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Steak: Place the skirt steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is well-coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Make the Chimichurri: In a separate bowl, combine chopped parsley, cilantro, red wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well and set aside to allow the flavors to develop.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it is well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Steak: Remove the skirt steak from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, depending on your preferred doneness.
- Rest the Meat: After grilling, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and improves flavor.
- Slice the Steak: Cut the steak against the grain into thin strips to ensure tenderness.
- Serve with Chimichurri: Generously spoon chimichurri sauce over the sliced steak right before serving.
How to Serve
When it comes to presenting your Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri, consider the following suggestions:- Plating Style: Arrange the sliced steak on a large platter. Drizzle chimichurri sauce over the top for a vibrant look.
- Accompaniments: Serve with grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini or a fresh salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.
- Garnish: Add lime wedges on the side for a zesty touch and additional flavor.
- Beverage Pairing: Complement your meal with a bold red wine, such as Malbec, which pairs beautifully with the flavors of the steak and chimichurri.
- Sharing Style: Encourage guests to create their own tacos or wraps using the skirt steak and chimichurri as filling with tortillas.
Additional Tips
- Marinate Longer: For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the skirt steak for up to 24 hours. The flavors will penetrate the meat further, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- Adjust Spiciness: If you enjoy some heat, add more red pepper flakes to your chimichurri. Conversely, you can leave them out altogether for a milder sauce.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Always use fresh herbs for your chimichurri. Dried herbs won’t provide the same vibrant flavor profile, which is essential in this dish.
- Visual Appeal: Serve your skirt steak on a wooden cutting board and spoon the chimichurri sauce on top. This rustic presentation enhances the dining experience.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add other herbs like oregano or mint to the chimichurri for a different flavor dimension. Each herb adds its unique touch.
Recipe Variation
Feel free to customize your Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri! Here are some exciting variations:- Citrus-Infused Marinade: Add orange or lime juice to your marinade for a bright, zesty flavor. This can further enhance the taste of the skirt steak.
- Chimichurri Twist: Experiment by adding some diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers to your chimichurri. This will provide additional texture and flavor.
- Grilled Vegetable Addition: Pair the skirt steak with marinated grilled vegetables, such as asparagus, mushrooms, or eggplant, to create a more complete meal.
- Alternative Cuts of Meat: Not a fan of skirt steak? Try using flank steak or sirloin instead. They also marinate well and grill beautifully.
- Chimichurri Variation: Mix in some avocado to the chimichurri for a creamy twist, making the sauce richer and more decadent.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store any leftover skirt steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will last for about 3-4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, before reheating or grilling.
- Chimichurri Storage: The chimichurri can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate over time.
Special Equipment
While you don’t need anything fancy, having the right tools can make the cooking process easier:- Grill: A reliable grill is essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and that smoky flavor.
- Resealable Bags: Ideal for marinating the skirt steak as they allow the marinade to thoroughly coat the meat.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board is necessary for both slicing the steak and serving it.
- Mixing Bowl: Use a bowl for preparing the marinade and another for the chimichurri.
- Brush: A basting brush can help apply extra chimichurri or marinade while grilling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when the skirt steak is done?
For medium-rare doneness, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I use different types of vinegar for the marinade or chimichurri?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar for a slightly different taste profile.
Is it necessary to let the steak rest after grilling?
Yes, resting the steak is crucial. It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is juicy and flavorful.
How can I make chimichurri ahead of time?
Chimichurri can be made a day in advance. Keep it in the refrigerator, and the flavors will deepen.
What side dishes pair well with skirt steak?
Consider serving with roasted potatoes, a fresh green salad, or rice pilaf. Each complements the skirt steak and chimichurri well.