Craving a burst of flavor in every bite? You’re in the right place! Chimichurri steak tacos are a savory delight that will transform your next meal. With a tender, marinated flank steak topped with a zesty chimichurri sauce, every taco becomes an unforgettable experience. Join me as we explore easy steps and fresh ingredients to create this mouthwatering dish. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your friends!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The chimichurri sauce brings a vibrant, tangy kick that elevates the savory steak, making each bite irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, as it can be prepared in under an hour while still impressing your guests.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the toppings like avocado and feta cheese to cater to your personal taste preferences.
- Fresh Ingredients: The combination of fresh parsley, garlic, and tomatoes not only adds flavor but also brings a pop of color to your plate.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Chimichurri Steak Tacos
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
The flank steak is the star here. It has a rich flavor and great texture. Olive oil helps the spices stick and adds moisture. Salt and pepper bring out the natural taste of the meat. Garlic powder adds depth, while smoked paprika gives a nice touch of smokiness.
Ingredients for Chimichurri Sauce
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup olive oil
Chimichurri sauce is fresh and zesty. The parsley is bright and full of flavor. Minced garlic gives a nice kick. Red pepper flakes add heat, but you can adjust based on your taste. Apple cider vinegar brings acidity that balances the richness of the steak. The olive oil helps blend everything together.
Toppings and Garnishes
- 4 small corn tortillas
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Corn tortillas are the perfect base for the tacos. They are soft and hold all the toppings well. Sliced avocado adds creaminess, while diced tomatoes bring freshness. Feta cheese adds a salty element if you like. Fresh cilantro gives a burst of flavor and color at the end.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare Chimichurri Sauce
To make the chimichurri sauce, start by mixing the following in a medium bowl:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Next, slowly drizzle in ½ cup olive oil while whisking. This mixing helps the sauce blend nicely. Let it sit to allow the flavors to develop. Waiting just a bit makes the taste even better.
Season and Marinate the Steak
Now, let’s get the flank steak ready. First, rub the steak with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Make sure it’s well coated. Then, sprinkle on:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Massage the spices into the steak. This step helps the flavor soak in. You should let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. If you want stronger flavors, refrigerate it for up to 2 hours.
Cooking the Steak
When you’re ready to cook, preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side. This timing gives you a medium-rare finish. If you like it more cooked, adjust the time. After cooking, let the steak rest for 5 minutes to keep the juices in.
Slicing and Preparing Tortillas
After the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. Cutting against the grain makes the steak more tender to chew.
For the tortillas, warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This makes them soft and easy to fold. To keep them warm, cover them with a clean kitchen towel.
Assembling the Tacos
To assemble, take a warm tortilla and layer it with a few slices of steak. Top it with diced tomatoes and sliced avocado. If you like, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. Lastly, drizzle a generous amount of chimichurri sauce over everything. This adds a burst of flavor.
Final Garnishing and Serving Suggestions
For a bright finish, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top of the tacos. Serve them right away with extra chimichurri sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling. This way, everyone can enjoy a bit more flavor!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavors
Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference in taste. For the best flavor, choose ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs. Fresh parsley adds a bright, green taste to the chimichurri. Make sure your garlic is firm and fragrant.
When marinating the steak, be generous with the spices. Massage the spices into the meat well. This helps the flavors soak in. Let the steak marinate for at least 30 minutes. For better flavor, refrigerate it for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve the perfect sear on the steak, preheat your skillet or grill pan. A hot surface helps create a nice crust. Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Adjust the time if your steak is thicker or thinner. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Allow the steak to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps keep the juices inside. If you skip this step, the juices will run out when you slice it.
Enhancing the Chimichurri Sauce
To make your chimichurri unique, consider adding lime juice or fresh oregano. These options brighten the flavor and add an extra layer of taste. You can also try adding a touch of honey for sweetness.
When making chimichurri, mix the ingredients in a bowl well. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking. This helps create a smooth, blended sauce. Let the sauce sit for a bit. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
Pro Tips
- Rest the Steak: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.
- Use Fresh Herbs: For the best flavor, use fresh parsley and garlic in the chimichurri sauce. Dried herbs can lose their potency and freshness.
- Customize Your Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like pickled onions or jalapeños for an extra kick of flavor.
- Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinating the steak for a few hours or overnight will deepen the flavors and improve tenderness.
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can swap flank steak for chicken or shrimp. Both options work well with chimichurri. Just season your protein as you would the steak. Grill or sauté until cooked through. For a vegetarian option, grill assorted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn. These add a fresh twist to your tacos and keep them hearty.
Different Types of Tacos
You can choose between soft or hard taco shells. Soft corn tortillas are traditional, but crunchy shells can add fun. If you want a lighter meal, try a taco salad. Just layer the steak and toppings over greens instead of tortillas. This gives you the same great taste while adding some extra crunch.
Flavor Variations for Chimichurri
Customize your chimichurri sauce with extra herbs like oregano or cilantro. You can also add spices like cumin for heat. If you enjoy a citrus kick, try adding lemon or lime juice. This brightens the flavor and pairs well with the steak. Feel free to experiment until you find your favorite blend!
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Tacos
To store leftover tacos, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out. You can also place them in an airtight container. For the best taste, eat leftover tacos within two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just be aware the texture may change.
Storing Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri sauce needs a good home in the fridge. Use a clean, airtight container to store it. Glass jars work well for this. The sauce stays fresh for about one week. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays. This way, you can use small amounts as needed. Just pop one out and let it thaw.
Reheating Tips
When reheating steak, I suggest using a skillet over medium heat. This method keeps the meat juicy. Heat it for about three to four minutes, turning halfway. If you need to take tacos on-the-go, wrap them in foil. This keeps them warm during transport. Enjoy them fresh when you reach your destination!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use different cuts of steak for your tacos. Skirt steak is a great choice too. It has a rich flavor and cooks well. You can also try sirloin or ribeye for a juicy bite. Just remember to keep the cooking time in check. Each cut has its own texture and taste.
How spicy is chimichurri sauce?
Chimichurri sauce can vary in spice. The red pepper flakes add some heat. If you want it milder, use less or skip them. You can also add more to make it spicier. The fresh garlic gives it a strong flavor as well. Adjust it to your taste for the best experience.
What do I serve with Chimichurri Steak Tacos?
These tacos pair well with many sides. Try serving them with a simple salad. A fresh corn salad or black beans also works great. For drinks, a light beer or a refreshing limeade is perfect. These options balance the rich flavors of the tacos.
How long will chimichurri sauce last in the fridge?
Chimichurri sauce lasts about one week in the fridge. Store it in a sealed container to keep it fresh. Look for any changes in color or smell as signs of spoilage. If it looks dull or smells off, it’s best to toss it.
Can I make chimichurri sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make chimichurri sauce ahead of time. It tastes even better after sitting for a while. Just make sure to store it in a sealed container. Letting the flavors blend enhances the taste. This makes meal prep easier for busy days.
Chimichurri steak tacos are a tasty treat. You learned key ingredients like flank steak, fresh herbs, and spices. Proper steps help you craft rich flavors, from marinating steak to making chimichurri sauce. Don't forget the toppings! Mix things up with different proteins or taco types. Store leftovers well for later use. Enjoy your tacos fresh or reheated. With these tips, you can impress family and friends anytime. Create your unique spin on this dish and make meal time fun. Enjoy every bite!
