Grilled Garlic and Herb Steak with Chimichurri Sauce: A Flavorful Feast for Any Occasion

Few dishes compare to the rich, aromatic flavors of a perfectly grilled garlic and herb steak topped with fresh chimichurri sauce. This recipe combines the savory goodness of herb-infused ribeye steak with the vibrant, tangy flair of chimichurri sauce, creating an unforgettable meal that’s ideal for gatherings or special occasions. Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to master this dish.

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Why Choose Grilled Garlic and Herb Steak with Chimichurri Sauce?

The combination of a juicy, herb-marinated steak and a zesty chimichurri sauce is hard to beat. The garlic and herb marinade brings a depth of flavor to the steak, while chimichurri adds freshness and a tangy kick, perfectly balancing the richness of the meat. Whether you’re a grilling pro or a beginner, this recipe is easy to make yet tastes like it was crafted in a fine restaurant.

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Essential Ingredients for Grilled Garlic and Herb Steak

This recipe calls for simple, high-quality ingredients to ensure each bite is packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Steak:

• Ribeye Steaks: Choose two boneless ribeye steaks or your favorite cut. Ribeye is recommended for its tenderness and rich marbling.
• Garlic: Four cloves, minced to release their full flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Two tablespoons each of chopped rosemary and thyme.
• Olive Oil: Two tablespoons to bring all the flavors together and help with marinating.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

• Parsley: One cup, finely chopped.
• Cilantro: 1/4 cup, finely chopped, adding a touch of earthiness.
• Garlic: Four cloves, minced.
• Red Onion: One small onion, finely chopped.
• Red Wine Vinegar: 1/4 cup for a bit of acidity.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1/2 cup for richness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A teaspoon, or adjust to your spice preference.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.

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Step-by-Step Preparation: Crafting the Perfect Garlic and Herb Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic and Herb Marinade

Start by creating a marinade that will infuse the steak with a bold garlic and herb flavor. Follow these steps:

1. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, and olive oil. Mix until well-blended.
2. Rub this mixture generously over both sides of each steak, ensuring even coverage.
3. Let the steaks marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. If you have more time, marinate in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours to enhance flavor.

Tip: For maximum flavor, allow the steaks to come to room temperature before grilling. This step helps them cook evenly and results in a more tender steak.

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Step 2: Craft the Chimichurri Sauce

Chimichurri sauce is a bright and tangy condiment from Argentina, perfect for grilled meats. Here’s how to make it:

1. In a bowl, combine the chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, and red onion.
2. Add red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
4. Let the sauce sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tip: Chimichurri can be made up to a day ahead. Refrigerate it if preparing in advance, but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

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Grilling the Garlic and Herb Steak to Perfection

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

For the best results, preheat your grill to high heat. If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a stovetop grill pan works as well.

Step 2: Season the Steak

Right before grilling, season the marinated steaks with a generous pinch of salt and black pepper on both sides. Salt helps form a delicious crust, while pepper adds a slight kick.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

1. Place the steaks on the preheated grill, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preferred doneness.
2. Flip the steaks only once to get those classic grill marks.
3. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy: 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.

Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, consider using hardwood chips like mesquite or hickory on the grill.

Step 4: Let the Steak Rest

Once the steaks are done, let them rest for 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful steak.

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Serving Suggestions: Plating Your Garlic and Herb Steak with Chimichurri

1. Slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness.
2. Arrange the steak slices on a platter, and generously spoon the chimichurri sauce over the top or serve it on the side.
3. Garnish with extra herbs, such as a sprig of rosemary or thyme, for an appealing presentation.

Tip: Serve this steak alongside roasted vegetables or a light green salad for a complete meal.

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Perfect Pairings for Grilled Garlic and Herb Steak

This steak pairs wonderfully with side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are a few ideas:

• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, roasted potatoes make a hearty addition.
• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a crunchy, fresh element.
• Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of these potatoes is a great balance to the savory steak and tangy chimichurri.

Tip: To elevate the meal, pair with a bold red wine like Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon, which matches the depth of flavors in both the steak and chimichurri.

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Chimichurri Sauce Variations: Customize to Your Taste

Chimichurri is versatile, and there are many ways to adjust it to suit your preferences:

• Spicier Chimichurri: Add more red pepper flakes, or include a minced jalapeño for an extra kick.
• More Garlic Flavor: Double the garlic if you’re a fan of robust garlic notes.
• Citrus Twist: Add a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice for a zesty spin.

Tip: If you’re short on time, make a simpler chimichurri by blending all ingredients in a food processor until smooth.

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Troubleshooting Tips: Getting the Perfect Steak Every Time

Even seasoned cooks encounter challenges when grilling steak. Here are some common issues and solutions:

• Steak Sticking to the Grill: Ensure the grill is preheated and lightly oiled. Let the steak naturally release from the grill when it’s ready to flip.
• Overcooked Steak: Use a meat thermometer for precise cooking times. Always allow time for resting, as the steak will continue cooking slightly off the grill.
• Unbalanced Chimichurri: Adjust seasonings gradually and taste as you go, especially with salt, pepper, and vinegar. These flavors are powerful in chimichurri and should be balanced to your preference.

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Hosting Tips: Make This Recipe a Showstopper

1. Prepare in Advance: Marinate the steak and make the chimichurri sauce a few hours ahead to save time.
2. Presentation is Key: Serve on a large wooden cutting board or platter for a rustic look. Add small bowls of chimichurri around the steak for guests to add more sauce if they like.
3. Double the Recipe: This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings, so feel free to double the ingredients if you’re cooking for a crowd.

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Health Benefits of Grilled Steak with Chimichurri

• Rich in Protein: Steak is a high-quality source of protein, vital for muscle growth and tissue repair.
• Herbs and Garlic: Rosemary and thyme contain antioxidants, while garlic has immune-boosting properties.
• Chimichurri’s Fresh Ingredients: Parsley and cilantro are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and potassium.

Tip: Using fresh, whole ingredients keeps this meal flavorful and nutritious without needing added sugars or processed elements.

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Final Thoughts: A Meal to Remember

Grilled Garlic and Herb Steak with Chimichurri Sauce is more than just a dish—it’s a culinary experience. The combination of marinated steak and fresh chimichurri will bring any gathering to life with its mouthwatering flavors and beautiful presentation. Follow the steps above, and enjoy a meal that brings the best of grilled goodness with a refreshing twist from South America.