Name: Irresistible Chimichurri Flank Steak That'll Wow Your Guests
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Flank Steak (A lean cut best marinated for tenderness.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Enhances richness and moisture.); 1 tbsp Salt (Use kosher salt for even seasoning.); 1 tsp Pepper (Freshly ground for best flavor.); 1 cup Fresh Parsley (The star of the sauce.); 1 tbsp Fresh Oregano; 3 cloves Garlic (Adjust according to your love for garlic.); 1 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar (Balances richness.); 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Adjust for heat tolerance.); 2 tbsp Lemon Juice (Substitute with lime if desired.); Additional fresh herbs like cilantro (For garnish.); Festive sides (Pairs beautifully with chimichurri.)

As I set the table for a festive gathering, the anticipation in the air feels electric. It’s that magical time of year when we come together to create memories and indulge in delicious food that warms the soul. This Christmas, I’m excited to share 20 easy Christmas dinner recipes that promise to elevate your holiday feast without overwhelming your schedule. From a succulent roasted turkey to heartwarming sides, each dish is crafted to impress your guests while allowing you to savor the special moments. Imagine presenting a stunning spread that perfectly blends tradition with a touch of modern flair; it’s a sure way to leave everyone smiling. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef, these recipes are designed to be both approachable and delightful. Ready to dive into effortless meal planning? Grab your apron and let’s make this holiday season unforgettable!

Why choose Chimichurri Flank Steak?

Flavor Explosion: The vibrant chimichurri sauce delivers a fresh, herbaceous punch that transforms the flank steak into a culinary masterpiece.
Easy Preparation: With minimal ingredients and fuss-free steps, this dish is perfect for busy holiday planning, allowing you to focus on other festive dishes like stuffing.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your guests with a stunning and unique presentation that’s sure to spark conversation around the table.
Versatile Pairing: Perfectly complements a variety of sides—from roasted vegetables to tangy salads—ensuring a well-rounded feast.
Quick Cooking Time: Flank steak cooks quickly, making it an easy addition to your Christmas dinner without sacrificing taste. Enjoy the holidays stress-free!

Chimichurri Flank Steak Ingredients

For the Steak

Flank Steak – A lean cut that’s packed with flavor; it’s best marinated for maximum tenderness.
Olive Oil – Helps to keep the steak moist and enhances the overall richness.
Salt – Essential for enhancing the steak’s natural flavors; use kosher salt for even seasoning.
Pepper – Freshly ground offers the best flavor; adjust to your preference for spiciness.

For the Chimichurri Sauce

Fresh Parsley – The star of the sauce, adding a vibrant, herbal quality.
Fresh Oregano – Provides a bright and aromatic contrast that makes the chimichurri stand out.
Garlic – Adds a punchy flavor; feel free to adjust based on your love for garlic!
Red Wine Vinegar – Balances the richness of the steak and chimichurri, enhancing the overall taste.
Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a delightful kick; adjust according to your heat tolerance.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavors and provides a refreshing tang; substitute with lime juice if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish – Additional fresh herbs like cilantro can be added to the chimichurri for color and zest.
Accompaniments – This chimichurri flank steak pairs beautifully with festive sides, making it an exceptional choice for your Christmas dinner recipes.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chimichurri Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine finely chopped fresh parsley, oregano, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes to create a vibrant chimichurri sauce. Whisk in olive oil until the mixture is well blended. Set aside about half of the sauce for serving later. The remaining sauce will be used to marinate the flank steak, allowing it to soak up all those delicious, herbaceous flavors for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Place the flank steak in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the chimichurri marinade over the steak, ensuring it is well-coated on all sides. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. During this time, the marinade will tenderize the meat and infuse it with sensational taste.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the steak marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 450°F (232°C). If using a grill pan on the stovetop, place it over medium-high heat. To test if the grill is ready, sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface; they should sizzle and evaporate almost immediately. This preparation will create a beautifully charred exterior on the chimichurri flank steak.

Step 4: Season the Steak
Once marinated, remove the flank steak from the refrigerator and take it out of the marinade. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear, then sprinkle generously with salt and freshly ground pepper on both sides. This enhances the flavor even more, creating a delectable contrast to the herbaceous chimichurri sauce.

Step 5: Grill the Steak
Place the seasoned flank steak on the hot grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 130–135°F (54–57°C). You’ll know it’s done when the outside is nicely charred with grill marks, and the inside is succulent and juicy—a perfect complement to the flavors of the chimichurri sauce.

Step 6: Rest and Slice
After grilling, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender bite. Once rested, slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. The result is beautifully tender pieces that are packed with flavor.

Step 7: Serve with Chimichurri
Transfer the sliced chimichurri flank steak to a serving platter and drizzle the reserved chimichurri sauce over the top. Garnish with additional fresh herbs, if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with your favorite festive side dishes, enhancing your Christmas dinner experience and impressing your guests with vibrant flavors and a beautiful presentation.

Make Ahead Options

These Chimichurri Flank Steak preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to streamline their holiday cooking! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Simply follow the marinade instructions, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For added convenience, prepare the chimichurri sauce ahead of time—this can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days without losing its vibrant taste. When it’s time to cook, grill the marinated steak directly from the fridge and carve it just before serving for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Enjoy a hassle-free Christmas dinner that’s just as delectable!

What to Serve with Chimichurri Flank Steak?

Let your festive gathering shine even brighter with these delightful pairings that enhance the vibrant flavors of your chimichurri flank steak.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture complements the juicy steak perfectly, providing a rich balance of flavors. A classic choice for any holiday table!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and caramelized, these vegetables add a delightful crunch and earthy taste, making for a colorful, nutritious side that brightens up your feast.
Garlic Herb Rice: Fluffy rice infused with garlic and herbs creates a light, fragrant backdrop for the steak. It’s an easy option that everyone will love.
Winter Salad: A mix of crisp greens, pomegranate seeds, and a tangy vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the savory meat. Each bite offers a burst of color and flavor.
Grilled Asparagus: With its tender yet crisp texture, grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil perfectly enhances the dish’s vibrant herb tones, showcasing the steak beautifully.
Warm Spiced Cider: This cozy, aromatic drink warms the heart and complements the flank steak’s flavors wonderfully. Keep your guests happy with every warm sip!
Rich Red Wine: A full-bodied red adds depth and sophistication to your meal. The rich tannins harmonize beautifully with the steak’s savory notes, making for an indulgent pairing.
Chocolate Tart: End on a sweet note with a luscious chocolate tart. Its deep flavors provide a wonderful contrast, leaving your guests with a memorable finish to the evening.

These harmonious combinations not only elevate your dining experience but also create a festive atmosphere full of delightful tastes and textures.

How to Store and Freeze Chimichurri Flank Steak

Fridge: Store leftover chimichurri flank steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep any extra chimichurri sauce separately to drizzle fresh over the meat when serving.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the sliced steak tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing too much flavor.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the steak in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, ensuring it stays juicy.

Chimichurri Storage: If you have leftover chimichurri sauce, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It’s perfect for adding flavor to salads or grilled vegetables!

Expert Tips for Chimichurri Flank Steak

Perfect Marinade Time: Allow the flank steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes to truly absorb the flavors; longer is even better for tender meat.
Resting is Key: Always let the steak rest after grilling. This redistributes the juices, ensuring every slice remains juicy and flavorful in your Christmas dinner recipes.
Grill Marks Matter: Achieve those beautiful grill marks by placing the steak at a 45-degree angle on the grill; this enhances visual appeal and adds flavor.
Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches 130–135°F for medium-rare. Overcooking can lead to a dry texture that deviates from the intended flavor.
Slice Against the Grain: For optimal tenderness, always slice the flank steak against the grain. This breaks up the muscle fibers, making every bite easier to chew.
Chimichurri Storage: If you have leftover chimichurri sauce, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week; it enhances many dishes beyond just the steak!

Chimichurri Flank Steak Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize this chimichurri flank steak recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Replace regular soy sauce in side dishes with gluten-free soy or tamari.
Herb Swap: Substitute fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a unique flavor profile in your chimichurri sauce.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the chimichurri for an extra heat level that dances on the palate.
Citrus Twist: Incorporate orange zest or juice in the chimichurri to add a refreshing and zesty note to the rich steak.
Smoky Flavor: If you crave a smoky essence, consider grilling the steak over wood chips or using smoked paprika in the chimichurri.
Salsa Verde Alternative: For an Italian twist, try a classic salsa verde instead of chimichurri to serve alongside your flank steak.
Veggie Delight: Pair the steak with grilled or sautéed seasonal vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, for wholesome nutrition and exciting textures.
Roasted Garlic: Incorporate roasted garlic into the chimichurri for a mellow, sweet flavor that adds depth and richness to the sauce.

Explore these substitutions and twists to make your chimichurri flank steak truly your own! For a delightful pairing, consider serving alongside a traditional stuffing or some vibrant roasted vegetables that can complement the dynamism of the meal.

Chimichurri Flank Steak Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best flank steak?
Absolutely! Look for flank steaks that have a deep red color and are well-marbled with fat for the best flavor and tenderness. Avoid any cuts with dark spots or excessive graying, as these may indicate that the meat isn’t fresh.

How should I store leftover chimichurri flank steak?
You can store leftover chimichurri flank steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the flavors intact, place any remaining chimichurri sauce in a separate container.

Can I freeze chimichurri flank steak?
Very! To freeze, wrap the sliced steak tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. This will keep it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and gently reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to maintain juiciness.

What can I do if my chimichurri sauce turns out too runny?
If your chimichurri sauce is too runny, you can easily thicken it up! Add more finely chopped herbs (like parsley or oregano) or a touch more olive oil to help bind it. Blend in additional garlic or a small dash of mustard for extra flavor and thickness, if desired.

Is chimichurri safe for pets?
While chimichurri is delicious for humans, be cautious about giving it to pets. Garlic, which is commonly used in the sauce, can be harmful to dogs and cats, as it may cause gastrointestinal issues. Always check with your vet before sharing human food with your furry companions.

How can I make chimichurri sauce spicier?
To kick up the heat level of your chimichurri, simply add more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also incorporate minced jalapeño for a fresh, zesty kick! Enjoy experimenting with flavors to make it your own.