Chimichurri Steak Tacos Flavorful and Simple Meal

Craving a tasty and easy meal? Look no further than Chimichurri Steak Tacos! These tacos pack bold flavors with juicy steak and zesty chimichurri sauce. My guide will walk you through the simple process of making them from scratch. With fresh ingredients and quick steps, you'll be ready to impress your family or friends in no time. Let’s dive into this flavorful dish!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 1 pound flank steak

- 8 small corn tortillas

Flank steak is my go-to for these tacos. It has great flavor and cooks quickly. Corn tortillas are perfect for holding all the tasty fillings.

Chimichurri Sauce Ingredients

- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

- 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped

- 2 garlic cloves, minced

- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

- 1/3 cup olive oil

- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

- Salt and pepper to taste

Chimichurri sauce is a key part of this dish. I love using fresh herbs like parsley and oregano. Olive oil and red wine vinegar add a rich flavor. Garlic and red pepper flakes give it a nice kick.

Toppings

- 1 avocado, sliced

- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

The toppings make these tacos even better. Creamy avocado balances the sauce. Sweet cherry tomatoes add freshness. Crumbled feta gives a nice salty bite. Finally, cilantro adds a touch of brightness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chimichurri Sauce

To start, mix the fresh herbs and spices in a medium bowl. Add 1/2 cup of chopped parsley, 1/4 cup of chopped oregano, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Next, sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Pour in 1/3 cup of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then stir everything together. Let the sauce sit for at least 15 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Cooking the Steak

Now, move on to cooking the steak. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Take 1 pound of flank steak and rub it with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season it well with salt and pepper. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for a medium-rare finish. If you prefer a different doneness, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Once done, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting helps keep the juices inside.

Warming the Tortillas

While the steak rests, it’s time to warm the tortillas. You can do this on the grill or in a dry skillet. Warm each corn tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side. This step is key for making the tortillas pliable. If they are warm, they will fold better and hold all your tasty fillings.

Assembling the Tacos

To assemble the tacos, slice the rested steak thinly against the grain. Take each warmed tortilla and layer in the slices of steak. Add sliced avocado and halved cherry tomatoes on top. Finally, drizzle the chimichurri sauce over everything. This adds a fresh and zesty flavor that ties it all together. Finish by sprinkling crumbled feta cheese and fresh cilantro leaves on each taco before serving.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Chimichurri Sauce

For the best chimichurri, you can swap herbs. Try cilantro or basil for a twist. You can also add lemon juice for a fresh kick. The key to great chimichurri is the right mix of oil and vinegar. Aim for a balance that keeps it smooth. If it’s too thick, add a bit more olive oil. If it's too thin, just add more herbs. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend well.

Steak Cooking Techniques

To cook your flank steak just right, use a grill or grill pan. Aim for medium-high heat. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer if you have one. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for perfect doneness. After you take the steak off the heat, let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps keep the juices in the meat. If you skip this step, your steak may turn dry.

Serving Suggestions

For a beautiful presentation, arrange tacos on a large platter. Drizzle extra chimichurri on top for flair. Sprinkle crumbled feta and fresh cilantro for color. Lime wedges add a nice zesty touch. For sides, consider serving with simple chips or a fresh salad. These pair well and add balance to your meal. Enjoy your tasty tacos with friends or family!

Variations

Different Proteins

You can switch out flank steak for chicken or shrimp. Chicken works well with chimichurri. Simply grill it until it’s juicy and tender. Shrimp adds a nice twist too. Just sauté or grill them for about three minutes on each side.

For a vegetarian option, try grilled mushrooms or marinated tofu. These options soak up the chimichurri sauce well. They bring great flavor and texture to your tacos.

Flavor Enhancements

Chimichurri is very flexible. You can add spices like cumin or smoked paprika to give it depth. For a unique twist, try adding lime juice or citrus zest. These elevate the sauce and brighten the flavors.

When it comes to toppings, think outside the box. You can use pickled red onions or jalapeños for some heat. Crushed tortilla chips can add a nice crunch too. Let your taste buds guide your choices.

Tortilla Alternatives

While corn tortillas are traditional, flour tortillas are another option. They are soft and chewy, making them easy to fold. If you want a low-carb option, use lettuce wraps. They keep things light and fresh.

If gluten is a concern, look for gluten-free tortillas. Many brands offer tasty options that work well with tacos. Just warm them up like you would with regular tortillas for the best texture.

Storage Info

Storing Leftover Tacos

To keep your leftover tacos fresh, follow these tips:

- Place tacos in an airtight container.

- Separate the toppings to prevent sogginess.

- Store them in the fridge for up to two days.

- Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.

For the best results, use a container that fits the tacos snugly. This keeps them from moving around and helps maintain their shape. You can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a container.

Chimichurri Storage Tips

To store chimichurri sauce, use these methods:

- Pour it into a glass jar with a lid.

- Seal it well to keep air out.

- Store in the fridge for up to one week.

- For longer storage, freeze it in ice cube trays.

Chimichurri lasts about three months in the freezer. Just thaw what you need later. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh chimichurri anytime. Remember, the flavors will deepen over time, so taste it before serving!

FAQs

How do I achieve the best marinade for flank steak?

To create a great marinade, mix olive oil, salt, and pepper. The oil helps flavor stick better. You can add garlic and herbs like parsley and oregano. Let the steak soak in this mix for at least 30 minutes. This step boosts taste and tenderness. The longer you marinate, the better it gets. For more flavor, try adding lime juice or vinegar. Just be careful not to over-marinate, as it can turn the meat mushy.

Can I make chimichurri sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make chimichurri sauce ahead of time. It tastes even better after sitting for a while. Store it in a jar with a tight lid. It lasts about one week in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in ice cube trays. This way, you can use small portions later. Just thaw what you need when ready to eat!

What sides pair well with Chimichurri Steak Tacos?

Many sides go well with chimichurri steak tacos. Here are some popular choices:

- Mexican rice

- Black beans

- Grilled corn

- Fresh salad

- Chips with salsa or guacamole

These sides add color and flavor to your meal. They also complement the zest of the chimichurri sauce.

How do I reheat leftover tacos?

Reheating tacos is easy! To keep them tasty, use the oven or skillet. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the tacos in foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. If using a skillet, heat on medium. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. This method keeps the tortillas crispy and warm. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy.

In this post, you learned about making delicious Chimichurri Steak Tacos. We covered key ingredients like flank steak and fresh herbs. I shared step-by-step instructions, tips for cooking, and tasty variations. You also found storage tips for leftovers and answers to common questions. With this info, you can create tasty tacos at home. Enjoy the flavors and impress your friends and family with your cooking!