As summer’s warmth envelops us, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I love whipping up this Easy Grilled Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce. Just imagine the smell of sizzling steak mingling with the vibrant aroma of fresh herbs as you grill—it’s pure culinary bliss.
With just a handful of ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it came straight from a fancy restaurant. This recipe not only delivers on flavor but is also gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with protein, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a quick weekday meal or a standout centerpiece for your summer cookouts.
So grab that grill, and let’s dive into making juicy, tender skirt steak topped with a zesty chimichurri that elevates it to extraordinary heights. Your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Quick Cooking: This recipe is just a breeze to whip up, taking under 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy evenings!
Bold Flavors: The herbaceous chimichurri sauce adds a bright pop of flavor that perfectly complements the rich, savory skirt steak.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy this gourmet meal with sides like grilled veggies or cilantro-lime rice, or use the chimichurri on chicken for even more delicious options.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress and leave everyone clamoring for more.
Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and gluten-free, this is a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down. Enjoy a plateful without the guilt!
Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce Ingredients
For the Skirt Steak
• Skirt Steak – A tender cut that’s perfect for grilling and boasts a rich, beefy flavor.
• Kosher Salt – Use for even seasoning to enhance the natural flavor of the steak.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds subtle heat; freshly ground gives the best taste.
For the Chimichurri Sauce
• Fresh Parsley – Provides vibrant color and herbaceous freshness, essential for the chimichurri sauce.
• Garlic – Adds a fragrant punch; adjust to taste for milder or stronger flavor.
• Dried Oregano – Offers an earthy note to complement the fresh herbs.
• Olive Oil – This smooth base brings everything together while enhancing flavors.
• Red Wine Vinegar – The acidity balances the richness of the steak, truly elevating your skirt steak with chimichurri sauce!
Feel free to gather these ingredients and get ready for a delightful grilling experience that the whole family will adore!
How to Make Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
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Prepare Steak: Start by bringing your skirt steak to room temperature and pat it dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for an even flavor enhancement.
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Preheat Grill: Get your outdoor grill or grill pan heated to medium-high. This is essential for that beautiful sear and to lock in all those delicious juices from the steak!
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Grill: Sear the skirt steak on the grill for about 3-4 minutes per side. Look for a nice charred surface while aiming for medium-rare doneness—just perfect for juicy, tender meat.
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Slice: Once grilled, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for a minute. Then, slice it against the grain into thin strips for the most tender bite possible.
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Serve: Place the sliced steak on a platter and top it with generous spoonfuls of chimichurri sauce. Enjoy it hot, allowing the flavors to mingle beautifully!
Optional: Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce?
Enhance your grilling experience with delicious sides that perfectly complement the savory, herbaceous flavors of this exquisite dish.
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Grilled Vegetables: A medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds color and charred sweetness, making for a delightful contrast to the steak.
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Cilantro-Lime Rice: This fragrant, zesty rice dish brings a light and refreshing balance to the richness of the skirt steak and chimichurri.
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Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, golden potatoes drizzled with olive oil and herbs create a hearty side, their starchy goodness a perfect match for the juicy steak.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens and cherry tomatoes tossed in vinaigrette adds a crisp, refreshing bite, cutting through the steak’s richness beautifully.
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Charred Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky corn grilled to perfection pairs delightfully with the steak, providing a fun, summer vibe to your meal.
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Red Wine: A bold Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon rounds out the experience, enhancing the flavors of the steak while adding warmth to your dinner gathering.
Variations & Substitutions for Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and enjoy unique flavors that cater to your taste!
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Flank Steak: Substitute flank steak if skirt steak is hard to find; it’s slightly leaner but equally flavorful. This swap maintains the herbaceous delight of chimichurri while providing a different texture.
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Dairy-Free: Use olive oil or avocado oil in your chimichurri instead of butter. This keeps the recipe entirely dairy-free while ensuring a rich taste.
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Cilantro Twist: Add fresh cilantro to your chimichurri for a bright, zesty flavor. This alternative provides an exciting spin on the traditional chimichurri which brightens your dish even more.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños to the chimichurri for an added heat element. This variation adds depth and a kick that complements the savory skirt steak perfectly.
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Grill Veggies: Don’t stop at steak! Use chimichurri drizzled over grilled vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, for a colorful side that captures summer’s essence.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like mint or basil in the chimichurri. Each offers a fresh profile that can transform your flavors dramatically.
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Lemon Zest Finish: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest over the finished steak before serving. This brightens the dish with a citrus lift
How to Store and Freeze Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
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Fridge: Store leftover skirt steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the meat tender and prevents it from absorbing unwanted odors.
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Freezer: Freeze skirt steak for up to 3 months in a well-sealed freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn and ensure the best quality when you reheat.
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Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on a grill or stovetop over low heat to avoid toughening the meat. Enjoy with fresh chimichurri for a flavorful touch!
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Chimichurri Storage: Store leftover chimichurri in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. The flavors will deepen, making it a tasty topping for other meals!
Expert Tips for Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
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Monitor Cooking Time: Skirt steak cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on it. Aim for medium-rare to avoid drying it out.
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Slice Against the Grain: To ensure every bite is tender, always slice the skirt steak against the grain after it rests.
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Chimichurri Flexibility: Feel free to customize your chimichurri by blending in other herbs like cilantro for an extra flavor twist.
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Room Temperature Steak: Allowing the skirt steak to come to room temperature before grilling helps it cook evenly and enhances flavor.
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Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, prepare the chimichurri sauce in advance; it can be stored in the fridge for a few days and flavors deepen over time.
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Experiment with Acidity: Different types of vinegar in the chimichurri can create unique flavors—try apple cider vinegar or balsamic for varied results!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Grilled Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights! You can season the skirt steak (use kosher salt and black pepper) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. Additionally, prepare the chimichurri sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, the herbs can infuse their flavor into the oil, making it even tastier! When you’re ready to grill, simply take the steak out of the fridge, allow it to come to room temperature, and cook as directed. Enjoy the ease of a gourmet meal with minimal effort—just as delicious as if made fresh!
Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting skirt steak?
Absolutely! When choosing skirt steak, look for bright red coloration and a fine grain texture. Avoid any cuts that showcase dark spots or excessive marbling. This cut should feel firm yet slightly pliable—don’t hesitate to ask your butcher for their freshest option!
How should I store leftover skirt steak?
Very simply! Place leftover skirt steak in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh and tender, ensure the container is sealed well. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a tightly sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze cooked skirt steak?
Absolutely! To freeze cooked skirt steak, first allow it to cool completely. Next, slice it against the grain for optimal tenderness, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to preserve juiciness.
What if my skirt steak turns out tough?
Take heart! If your skirt steak is tough, it’s often due to overcooking or slicing it incorrectly. Always aim for medium to medium-rare for the best results—use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (130°F-135°F). Slicing against the grain is key; this means cutting perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers, ensuring each bite is tender. If you find a tougher steak, consider shredding it for use in tacos or salads—flavorful disguises!
Is this recipe suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! This skirt steak with chimichurri sauce is entirely gluten-free as it uses no flour or gluten-containing ingredients. Just ensure that any vinegar or additional sauces you use adhere to your specific dietary needs. Enjoy worry-free!
How can I customize the chimichurri sauce for different flavor profiles?
Very easily! To customize your chimichurri, consider adding different herbs like cilantro or mint for a fresh twist. You can also play around with the acidity by substituting red wine vinegar for apple cider vinegar or even balsamic vinegar for a sweeter touch. Just blend all the ingredients together, and taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Savor Juicy Skirt Steak with Homemade Chimichurri Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing your skirt steak to room temperature and pat it dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Get your outdoor grill or grill pan heated to medium-high.
- Sear the skirt steak on the grill for about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Once grilled, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for a minute. Then, slice it against the grain into thin strips.
- Place the sliced steak on a platter and top it with generous spoonfuls of chimichurri sauce.