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Foolproof Grilled Chimichurri Steak

A foolproof grilled steak with a bright, herbaceous chimichurri. The secret is a two-zone fire and a chimichurri ratio tweak that balances acidity and oil for better emulsion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Argentinian-inspired
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ lb flank steak or skirt steak
  • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley finely chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh oregano leaves finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 shallot finely diced (about 2 tbsp)
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tsp kosher salt plus more for the steak
  • ½ tsp black pepper plus more for the steak

Equipment

  • charcoal or gas grill
  • instant-read thermometer
  • chef's knife
  • cutting board
  • mixing bowl
  • small jar or bowl for chimichurri
  • tongs

Method
 

  1. Make the chimichurri: In a bowl, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, shallot, red pepper flakes, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp pepper. Add vinegar and stir. Let sit 5 minutes, then whisk in olive oil in a slow stream. Set aside at room temperature.
  2. Prepare the steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
  3. Set up the grill for two-zone cooking: For charcoal, bank hot coals to one side. For gas, turn half the burners to high, leave the other half off. Target 450–500°F on the hot side.
  4. Sear the steak over high heat: Place steak on the hot side. Cook 3–4 minutes per side for a good crust. Do not move it during each side.
  5. Move to indirect heat: Transfer steak to the cooler side. Close the lid. Cook until internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium-rare (about 4–6 minutes, depending on thickness). Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
  6. Rest the steak: Remove from grill. Place on a cutting board. Spoon 2 tablespoons of chimichurri over the top. Let rest 8 minutes. Do not skip this — resting reabsorbs juices.
  7. Slice and serve: Slice against the grain into ½-inch strips. Drizzle with remaining chimichurri. Serve immediately.

Notes

Storage: Keep leftover chimichurri in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. The color will dull but flavor holds. Re-season steak slices with a pinch of flaky salt before serving if desired. For a milder garlic bite, let the chimichurri sit 15 minutes before serving.