Are you ready to spice up your taco night? Chimichurri steak tacos are here to help! This vibrant dish combines juicy flank steak with a zesty chimichurri sauce. You’ll find the recipe easy and fun. I’ll guide you through the fresh ingredients, simple steps, and a few tips to make these tacos unforgettable. Let’s dive in and discover this flavorful and fresh delight together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The chimichurri sauce brings a vibrant and zesty kick that perfectly complements the savory steak.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh herbs, avocado, and tomatoes elevates each bite, making these tacos incredibly refreshing.
- Versatile Meal: These tacos are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends.
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 40 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Chimichurri Steak Tacos
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Ingredients for Chimichurri Sauce
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (alternative: lemon juice)
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make Chimichurri Steak Tacos, gather these simple ingredients. Each one adds to the fresh taste of the dish. The flank steak is the star, and it needs seasoning. Olive oil helps keep the meat juicy. Salt and pepper bring out the flavor.
The corn tortillas give the tacos their shape. I love using small ones for easy bites. Sliced avocado adds creaminess, and cherry tomatoes bring bright color. Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty bite. Fresh cilantro leaves add a pop of flavor.
For the chimichurri sauce, fresh herbs are key. Parsley and cilantro make it vibrant. Garlic adds a nice kick. Red wine vinegar gives the sauce a tangy taste. Olive oil keeps it smooth. Red pepper flakes add a bit of heat, but you can adjust this to your liking. Salt and pepper finish it off.
This mix of ingredients creates a tasty taco experience. You can enjoy these flavors with each bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chimichurri Sauce
To start, you need to gather your herbs and ingredients. In a medium bowl, combine:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix these ingredients well. Once combined, set the sauce aside for at least 15 minutes. This waiting time allows the flavors to meld. The fresh herbs will shine through in your tacos.
Cooking the Steak
Next, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. While it heats up, rub 1 lb of flank steak with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper. Once hot, place the steak on the grill or skillet. Cook it for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium rare. Adjust the time if you prefer a different doneness. After cooking, remove the steak from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step helps keep the meat juicy.
Assembling the Tacos
Now comes the fun part! After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This ensures each bite is tender. While you slice, warm your 8 small corn tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet for about 1 minute on each side.
To assemble the tacos, layer the sliced steak on each tortilla. Add a few slices of avocado, some halved cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese. Finally, drizzle the chimichurri sauce generously over the top.
Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with additional chimichurri on the side. Enjoy your flavorful tacos!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Chimichurri Sauce
To make great chimichurri sauce, adjust the flavors to your taste. You can add more garlic for a stronger kick or use lemon juice instead of vinegar for a bright twist. For a milder flavor, skip the red pepper flakes.
When chopping herbs, use a sharp knife for a clean cut. Stack the parsley and cilantro leaves, and chop finely. This method helps release their oils, making the sauce more flavorful.
Cooking the Steak Correctly
To check if your steak is done, use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, press the meat; it should feel firm but springy.
For tender steak, let it rest after cooking. This step allows the juices to settle. Slice against the grain to keep each bite juicy and easy to chew.
Tortilla Warming Techniques
Warm your tortillas evenly to keep them soft. You can do this on a grill or in a dry skillet. Heat them for about one minute on each side until they are flexible.
To keep tortillas warm while you assemble, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel. This keeps them soft and prevents them from drying out. Enjoy your tacos fresh and ready to eat!
Pro Tips
- Rest the Steak: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking helps redistribute the juices, making it more tender and flavorful.
- Customize the Chimichurri: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices in the chimichurri to suit your taste. Adding more garlic or a splash of citrus can elevate the flavor.
- Warm Tortillas Properly: Warming the tortillas enhances their flavor and pliability. Consider wrapping them in a clean towel to keep them warm while you assemble the tacos.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in the overall taste of your tacos.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
Using different cuts of beef can change your tacos. Skirt steak or sirloin works great too. If you want a twist, try chicken or pork. For non-meat eaters, black beans or grilled veggies make tasty options. You can even use portobello mushrooms for a hearty bite.
Flavor Variations for Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri sauce can be more than just parsley and cilantro. You can add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for warmth. A touch of honey can balance the acidity. To switch it up, try fresh herbs like oregano or mint. Each herb brings a new flavor to your sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your tacos with a fresh salad or rice for a complete meal. Grilled corn on the cob adds a sweet crunch. A side of pickled onions gives a zesty kick. For plating, stack your tacos high and sprinkle with extra cilantro. Add a lime wedge for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your tacos fresh, store each component separately. Place the cooked steak in an airtight container. Keep the chimichurri sauce in a jar. Wrap the tortillas in plastic wrap. This way, the flavors remain bright. You can store leftovers for up to three days in the fridge. After that, the quality may drop.
Freezing Options
You can freeze chimichurri sauce and cooked steak. For the sauce, pour it into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a ziplock bag. This helps you grab just what you need later. For the steak, slice it before freezing. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat the steak in a skillet over low heat. This keeps it juicy and tender.
Meal Prep Ideas
Prep components ahead of time for easy meals. You can make the chimichurri sauce up to a week in advance. Store it in the fridge in a sealed container. Slice the steak the day before and store it too. Warm the tortillas right before serving for the best taste. This way, you can enjoy tacos on busy days in no time. Just layer the ingredients and dig in!
FAQs
What is Chimichurri Sauce made of?
Chimichurri sauce is a green sauce from Argentina. It is fresh and zesty, perfect for steak. The main ingredients are:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
This sauce adds a bright flavor to any meat dish. Traditionally, people use it on grilled meats. It also works well as a marinade or dressing.
Can I use other meats for these tacos?
Yes, you can use other meats for Chimichurri steak tacos. Flank steak is great but not the only option. Here are some alternatives:
- Skirt steak
- Ribeye
- Chicken breast
- Pork tenderloin
- Tofu for a vegetarian option
Each meat will bring its own flavor. Adjust your cooking time based on the cut. Always slice against the grain for tenderness.
What are the best accompaniments for Chimichurri Steak Tacos?
Adding the right sides and drinks can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Sides:
- Mexican rice
- Black beans
- Grilled corn
- Avocado salad
- Drinks:
- Cold beer
- Red wine
- Fresh limeade
- Sparkling water with lime
These pairings will balance the flavors in your tacos. Enjoying them together makes for a delightful meal.
Chimichurri steak tacos combine fresh flavors and simple steps for a tasty dish. You can make the chimichurri sauce with herbs, garlic, and olive oil. Cook the flank steak to get the best taste and tenderness. Assemble your tacos with tortillas, steak, avocado, and feta.
Try different meats or veggies for your own twist. Store leftovers for quick meals later. Enjoy exploring this delicious option at your next meal!
