Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce is a fantastic choice for any special meal cooked on the grill. This dish brings together the rich flavors of tender steak and zesty chimichurri, making it perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, or even a date night at home. With its vibrant herbs and spices, this recipe stands out in both taste and presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Experience: The combination of grilled flat iron steak and chimichurri sauce creates a robust flavor that delights the palate.
• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 37 minutes, you can impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for summer cookouts or cozy winter dinners, this dish suits any occasion.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh herbs, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant green chimichurri adds a beautiful touch to your plated dish, making it visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gathering the right tools will make the process smooth. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Instant Read Meat Thermometer
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Food processor (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that delicious charred flavor on the flat iron steak.
• Instant Read Meat Thermometer: Ensures that your steak is cooked to perfection every time.
• Mixing Bowl: Necessary for combining the ingredients for your flavorful chimichurri sauce.

Ingredients

For the Steak

• 1 1/2 lb. piece Flat Iron Steak
• 1 T Steak Rub (see notes)

For the Chimichurri Sauce

• 1/2 cup finely chopped cilantro leaves (about 1 cup before chopping)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped flat leaf parsley leaves (about 1 cup before chopping)
• 2 T minced garlic
• 3 T fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp. red apple vinegar
• 1 tsp. Aleppo pepper flakes (see notes)
• 1 tsp. ground cumin
• 1/2 cup olive oil

How to Make Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. Take the steak out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking to let it reach room temperature.
2. Rub the steak with steak rub evenly across both sides.

Step 2: Make the Chimichurri Sauce

1. Wash cilantro leaves and parsley leaves thoroughly; dry them using a paper towel or salad spinner.
2. Finely chop cilantro, parsley, and garlic by hand or using a food processor.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped herbs with lemon juice, red apple vinegar, Aleppo pepper flakes, and cumin.
4. Gradually stir in olive oil until well blended; let sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

1. Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat (you should be able to hold your hand there for only 2-3 seconds).
2. Place the steak on the grill at an angle. Grill for about 3-4 minutes until you see nice grill marks forming.
3. Rotate the steak 45 degrees and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the first side.
4. Flip the steak over and continue grilling until it reaches your desired doneness; aim for about 12 minutes total for medium rare.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove the steak from the grill when done to your liking; let it rest for about 5 minutes.
2. Slice thinly across the grain and serve hot with chimichurri sauce drizzled over or on the side.

Enjoy this delightful Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce as a centerpiece for your next gathering!

How to Serve Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Serving Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce can elevate your dining experience. Here are a few delightful ways to enjoy this flavorful dish.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use a mix of fresh greens, such as arugula or spinach, to create a vibrant salad base. The peppery flavor complements the steak beautifully.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair the steak with seasonal roasted vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini for a colorful and nutritious side.

In Tacos

• Slice the steak thinly and serve in warm tortillas. Top with chimichurri sauce, diced tomatoes, and avocado for a delicious twist.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the sliced steak over a bed of rice or quinoa. Drizzle extra chimichurri sauce on top for added flavor.

With Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread on the side. This allows guests to soak up any remaining chimichurri sauce.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include the grilled steak on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and nuts. It makes for an impressive appetizer or main course option.

this …

How to Perfect Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Perfecting your Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce is key to achieving that restaurant-quality taste at home. Here are some helpful tips:

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality flat iron steak from a trusted source for better flavor and tenderness.
• Season Generously: Apply steak rub evenly before cooking to enhance the meat’s natural flavors.
• Monitor Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat for perfect searing and grill marks.
• Rest the Steak: Allow the steak to rest after grilling for at least 5 minutes. This helps retain juices for a more tender bite.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain reduces chewiness, making each bite enjoyable.
• Experiment with Chimichurri: Feel free to customize your chimichurri by adding herbs like oregano or adjusting spice levels according to your taste preference.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Complementing your Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce is essential for a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic side dish options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs perfectly.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled to perfection adds a smoky sweetness that balances the savory steak.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offers freshness that contrasts beautifully.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness enhances the flavors of both the steak and chimichurri sauce.
5. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp green beans sautéed in olive oil provide color and crunch alongside rich steak.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds texture and acidity, cutting through the richness of the meat.
7. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges baked until golden make for a hearty side that everyone loves.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with summer vegetables makes for a refreshing complement to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not letting the steak rest – Skipping the resting time after grilling can lead to juices spilling out when you cut it. Always let it rest for at least 5 minutes.
• Ignoring the temperature of the meat – Cooking steak straight from the fridge can result in uneven cooking. Allow your steak to come to room temperature for better results.
• Over-mixing the chimichurri sauce – Over-blending can turn your sauce into a paste. Gently mix the ingredients to retain texture and flavor.
• Using low-quality meat – Not all steaks are created equal. Choose a high-quality flat iron steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Skipping the marinade time – While you can serve chimichurri immediately, letting it sit enhances flavors. Aim for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled flat iron steak in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

• Freeze grilled steak in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

• Oven – Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Place steak on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave – Use medium power for short intervals, checking frequently. This will help avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my Grilled Flat Iron Steak is done?

The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 135°F (54°C) internally.

Can I make chimichurri sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare chimichurri sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator for enhanced flavors.

How should I slice my Grilled Flat Iron Steak?

Always slice against the grain. This helps ensure that each bite is tender and easy to chew.

What sides pair well with Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce?

Great options include grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri Sauce is perfect for any special meal or weekend barbecue. Its rich flavors and juicy texture make it a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize your chimichurri by adding different herbs or spices that you love!