If you're craving a meal that bursts with flavor, look no further! Chimichurri Steak Tacos are simple to make and truly delicious. With fresh herbs and tender steak, these tacos will impress anyone at your table. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step, from the perfect chimichurri sauce to tips for cooking steak just right. Ready to choose your next favorite dish? Let's dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Chimichurri: The vibrant chimichurri sauce adds a fresh and zesty flavor that elevates the steak, making every bite delicious.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
- Customizable Toppings: You can easily customize the toppings to suit your taste, whether you prefer creamy avocado, tangy feta, or fresh tomatoes.
- Healthy and Satisfying: With lean flank steak and fresh ingredients, these tacos are both nutritious and filling, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
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
- 4 small corn tortillas
The flank steak is the star here. It is tender and flavorful. The olive oil helps the spices stick. Salt and pepper bring out the beef's natural taste. Garlic powder adds a nice kick, while smoked paprika gives a lovely depth.
Ingredients for Chimichurri Sauce
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup olive oil
Chimichurri sauce is bright and fresh. The parsley and garlic create bold flavors. Red pepper flakes can add a little heat. The vinegar adds a tangy note. Olive oil ties everything together, making the sauce rich.
Optional Toppings and Garnishes
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Toppings make the tacos even better. Avocado adds creaminess, while tomatoes bring freshness. Feta cheese adds a salty bite. Fresh cilantro brightens the dish and adds color. Feel free to mix and match your favorites!
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce
To make the chimichurri sauce, gather your ingredients. In a bowl, mix one cup of finely chopped parsley and three minced garlic cloves. Add half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes, one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, half a teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper. Now, slowly whisk in half a cup of olive oil until it blends well. Let it rest so the flavors come together.
Seasoning and Marinating the Flank Steak
Grab your flank steak and rub it with one tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle on one teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This will give the steak great flavor. Let it marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinate it in the fridge for up to two hours for even better taste.
Cooking the Steak to Perfection
Heat your skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the marinated steak in the pan and cook it for about 4-5 minutes on each side. This will get you a nice medium-rare steak. If you want it more done, cook a bit longer. Once cooked, take it off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices in.
Tips for Slicing and Assembling the Tacos
When the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. This makes it tender and easier to eat. Take your corn tortillas and place a few slices of steak on each one. Top with diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and feta cheese if you like. Drizzle the chimichurri sauce generously over the top for a burst of flavor.
Warming Tortillas
To warm the tortillas, heat a dry skillet on medium heat. Place each tortilla in the pan for about 30 seconds on each side. This makes them soft and pliable for easy folding. Warming them brings out their flavor and makes them more enjoyable.
Tips & Tricks
How to Get the Best Flavor from Chimichurri
To make chimichurri pop, use fresh herbs. I love fresh parsley for its bright taste. Mince the garlic finely to release its full flavor. Red pepper flakes add a nice kick. Use good-quality olive oil for richness. Mix the ingredients well and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
Ensuring Perfectly Cooked Steak
For perfectly cooked steak, choose flank steak. It’s flavorful and tender. Rub it with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors soak in. Cook the steak over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer if you want to check doneness. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices inside.
Storing Leftover Chimichurri and Steak
Store leftover chimichurri in an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for up to a week. The flavors will continue to deepen over time. For leftover steak, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. It stays fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. When ready to eat, reheat the steak gently in a pan. This prevents it from drying out. Enjoy your leftovers in another taco or salad!
Pro Tips
- Let the Steak Rest: Allowing the steak to rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking helps retain its juices, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—130°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: For the best chimichurri, use fresh herbs and high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavor of your sauce.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like pickled onions or jalapeños to elevate the flavor and spice level of your tacos.
Variations
Alternative Proteins for Tacos
You can use different proteins for your tacos. Chicken, shrimp, or pork work well. For chicken, use boneless thighs for juicy bites. Shrimp cooks fast, so watch it closely. Pork shoulder gives a nice, tender flavor after slow cooking. Each option pairs well with chimichurri sauce.
Vegan and Vegetarian Adaptations
You can make this dish vegan or vegetarian. Instead of steak, use grilled portobello mushrooms or jackfruit. Both options soak up flavors well. Add black beans or lentils for protein. Top with avocado and fresh veggies for a colorful meal.
Different Sauce Options Beyond Chimichurri
Chimichurri shines, but you can try other sauces. A fresh pico de gallo adds a bright kick. A zesty mango salsa brings sweetness. You can also use a classic salsa verde for a herby twist. Each sauce gives your tacos a unique flavor profile.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques for Leftovers
To keep your chimichurri steak tacos fresh, store them in an airtight container. Separate the steak, tortillas, and toppings. This helps maintain their texture and flavor. Store the steak in one container and the chimichurri sauce in another.
Reheating Methods for Steak and Tacos
When reheating, I suggest using a skillet. Heat it on medium-low. Add the steak slices and warm them for a few minutes. This keeps them juicy. For the tortillas, warm them in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds, but they may become soft.
Shelf Life of Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri sauce can last for about one week in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it. Pour the sauce into an ice cube tray and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy it later!
FAQs
What is Chimichurri Sauce?
Chimichurri sauce is a green condiment from Argentina. It’s made with fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and oil. I love its bright flavor. The main herb is parsley, giving it a fresh taste. Red pepper flakes add a bit of heat. This sauce pairs perfectly with grilled meats, especially steak.
Can I make Chimichurri Steak Tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare many parts ahead of time. Make the chimichurri sauce a day before. This gives flavors time to mix. You can also marinate the steak earlier. Just store it in the fridge. Warm the tortillas and cook the steak just before serving.
What are the best sides to serve with Chimichurri Steak Tacos?
Great sides include rice, beans, or a fresh salad. You could also serve grilled corn or guacamole. These sides balance the rich flavors of the tacos. They add color and texture to your meal.
How spicy is Chimichurri Sauce?
Chimichurri sauce has a mild spice level. The red pepper flakes give a gentle kick. If you want more heat, add extra flakes. Adjust the spice to your preference. It remains flavorful without being too spicy.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas. They are soft and hold fillings well. However, corn tortillas add a nice texture. Try both to see which you prefer. Each type brings its own taste to the tacos.
Chimichurri steak tacos are simple yet full of flavor. We covered the key ingredients, like flank steak and fresh herbs for the sauce. I shared step-by-step instructions to help you marinate and cook the steak perfectly. Remember to store leftovers properly for future meals. Explore different toppings and variations to keep it exciting. You can make these tacos your own and impress anyone at the table. Enjoy your cooking journey and the delicious tacos you create!
