Craving a tasty taco night? Let me introduce you to Chimichurri Steak Tacos! Bursting with fresh flavors, these tacos are simple to make and packed with zest. You'll learn how to prepare a bold chimichurri sauce and cook steak to juicy perfection. Whether it's just you or a fiesta with friends, this easy recipe will impress everyone. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and savor every bite!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavor Profile: The chimichurri sauce brings a vibrant, fresh taste that perfectly complements the savory steak.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like avocado or tomatoes to personalize each taco.
- Perfect for Sharing: These tacos are great for gatherings, allowing everyone to build their own delicious creations.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Chimichurri Steak Tacos
To make chimichurri steak tacos, you need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
Key Ingredients for Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri sauce brings flavor to your tacos. Here are the key ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Recommended Cuts of Steak
Flank steak is my favorite for this recipe. It’s flavorful and tender when cooked right. Other cuts you can use include skirt steak and sirloin. These cuts work well with chimichurri sauce, too. They absorb the flavors and remain juicy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chimichurri Sauce
To make chimichurri sauce, gather your ingredients. You will need fresh parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley and minced garlic. Add the red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Mix everything well until it is combined. Season your sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit while you prepare the steak. This helps the flavors blend nicely.
Cooking the Flank Steak
Now it’s time to cook the flank steak. First, preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. While it heats, rub the flank steak with olive oil. Generously season it with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the steak on the grill or skillet. Cook it for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. You can cook it longer if you prefer it well done. Once cooked, remove it from heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to stay in the meat.
Assembling the Tacos
Next, let’s put together the tacos. First, slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. This makes it easier to eat. While you slice, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side until they are warm and soft. To assemble, place a few slices of steak on each tortilla. Drizzle a good amount of chimichurri sauce over the steak. Feel free to add any toppings you like, such as diced tomatoes, avocado, or cilantro. Enjoy your delicious chimichurri steak tacos warm!
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfect Steak Doneness
To achieve perfect steak doneness, use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 135°F. For medium, go for 145°F. Always remember to rest your steak after cooking. This keeps it juicy. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before slicing. Slicing too soon can let the juices run out. Always cut against the grain. This makes the meat tender and easy to chew.
Best Practices for Making Chimichurri
When making chimichurri, use fresh herbs. Fresh parsley gives the best flavor. Chop the parsley finely for a smooth mix. Mince the garlic well to avoid big chunks. Mix the ingredients thoroughly. Let the sauce sit for at least 15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend. You can adjust the heat by adding more red pepper flakes. Always taste and adjust with salt and pepper before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Toppings
For serving, warm the corn tortillas first. This makes them soft and pliable. Place the sliced steak on the tortillas. Drizzle with chimichurri sauce generously. You can add toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado, or cilantro. These add brightness and flavor. Serve with extra chimichurri on the side for dipping. Enjoy each bite of your chimichurri steak tacos!
Pro Tips
- Let the Chimichurri Sit: Allowing the chimichurri sauce to sit for at least 30 minutes before using enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious.
- Rest the Steak: After cooking, resting the steak is crucial for juicy meat. It helps redistribute the juices, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
- Use High Heat: For the best sear on your steak, make sure your grill or skillet is preheated properly. This locks in the flavors and creates a nice crust.
- Experiment with Toppings: While chimichurri is fantastic, don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings like pickled onions, jalapeños, or queso fresco for extra flavor and texture.
Variations
Alternative Proteins for Tacos
You can swap flank steak for many proteins. Chicken, shrimp, or pork work great too. For chicken, use thighs or breasts. Grill or pan-sear until cooked through. Shrimp cooks fast, just 2-3 minutes on each side. For pork, try tenderloin or shoulder. Cook it until tender and slice it thin. Each protein brings its own taste and texture.
Different Chimichurri Ingredients
Chimichurri is not just one thing. You can change it up easily. For a different flavor, try cilantro instead of parsley. Add fresh mint for a cool twist. If you like it spicy, add more red pepper flakes. You can also use lime juice instead of vinegar for zest. These changes keep the sauce fresh and exciting.
Creative Taco Toppings and Sides
Tacos are fun because of the toppings! Try diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, or pickled onions. Cotija cheese adds a salty kick. Fresh cilantro gives a burst of flavor. For a crunch, add cabbage or radishes. Serve with a side of black beans or corn salad for a full meal. These easy toppings let you mix and match flavors. Enjoy making your tacos unique!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Tacos
Store leftover tacos in an airtight container. Place them in the fridge. Use them within two days for the best taste. If you have extra chimichurri sauce, keep it separate. This keeps the tortillas from getting soggy.
Storing Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri sauce stores well in a jar. Seal it tightly and place it in the fridge. Use it within one week for the best flavor. You can also freeze the sauce. Pour it into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a bag. This way, you can use small amounts later.
Reheating Tips for Leftovers
To reheat the tacos, warm a skillet over low heat. Place the tacos in the skillet for a few minutes. This makes the tortillas soft again. If you only have chimichurri sauce, warm it gently in a small pan. Avoid boiling to keep the flavors intact. Enjoy your meal again with fresh tastes!
FAQs
What is Chimichurri Sauce?
Chimichurri sauce is a bright, green condiment from Argentina. It mainly has parsley, garlic, and olive oil. You can taste a bit of vinegar and spice. This sauce adds a fresh and tangy flavor to dishes. I love using it for my steak tacos. It brings everything together and makes each bite exciting!
Can I use a different type of steak?
Yes, you can use different cuts of steak for tacos. Skirt steak and sirloin also work well. Both cuts have great flavor and cook quickly. Just remember to season them well and cook to your liking. Flank steak is my favorite because it’s tender and juicy when cooked right.
How can I make the tacos spicier or milder?
To spice up your tacos, add more red pepper flakes to the chimichurri. You can also mix in chopped jalapeños or hot sauce. If you prefer milder tacos, reduce the flakes in the sauce. You can also skip the spicy toppings. This way, you can control the heat to match your taste.
This blog post gave you the keys to making delicious Chimichurri steak tacos. We covered the essential ingredients and step-by-step cooking tips. You now have tips for cooking steak perfectly and knew how to store leftovers. Don't forget to explore variations to suit your taste.
These tacos are not just a meal; they bring flavor and joy. Enjoy creating your own versions and impress your friends and family. Happy cooking!
