Introduction: Take your taco night to the next level with these Chimichurri Steak Tacos. Tender grilled steak strips are paired with a vibrant and zesty chimichurri sauce, bringing a burst of flavor to every bite. Topped with creamy avocado and tangy pickled onions, these tacos are a delicious fusion of Latin American flavors that are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
- For the Steak:
- 1.5 pounds (680g) flank steak or skirt steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Tacos:
- 8-10 small soft tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Pickled red onions (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh lime wedges, for serving
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Preparation Steps:
- Marinate the Steak:
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture all over the steak and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Grill the Steak:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
- Assemble the Tacos:
- Warm the tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet until soft and pliable.
- Place a few slices of grilled steak in each tortilla.
- Top with a generous spoonful of chimichurri sauce, avocado slices, and pickled red onions.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Historical Context: Chimichurri is a traditional Argentinian sauce typically served with grilled meats. Its vibrant green color and tangy, herbaceous flavor make it a perfect complement to the rich, smoky taste of grilled steak. By incorporating chimichurri into these tacos, you’re combining the best of Latin American flavors with the beloved format of the taco, creating a dish that’s both familiar and exciting.
Nutritional Information: Chimichurri Steak Tacos offer a good balance of protein from the steak and healthy fats from the avocado and olive oil in the chimichurri sauce. The fresh herbs provide vitamins and antioxidants, while the pickled onions add a punch of flavor without extra calories. Enjoy these tacos as part of a balanced meal.
Conclusion: Chimichurri Steak Tacos are a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender, flavorful steak and zesty chimichurri sauce creates a taco experience that’s both satisfying and unique. Whether you’re serving these tacos for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
