Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Key Ingredients in This Recipe

• Steak – I use flank steak for this recipe. This cut comes from the bottom abdominal part of the cow. Because of the location it is lean with hard-working muscles and creating tougher fibers. Marinades are great for this cut because they help to tenderize the meat and break down some of those fibers. Because it is a lean, wide cut it’s great for searing or grilling. Be sure to slice it against the grain. It can easily be substituted for skirt steak.
• Shallot – Shallots have a mild, slightly sweet flavor. If needed yellow or red onion can be swapped in. The general rule of thumb is 3 medium shallots equal 1 medium onion.
• Herbs – Chimichurri is made with a combination of fresh cilantro, parsley and oregano leaves for a flavorful sauce.
• Fresno pepper – Fresno peppers look similar to jalapeños and have just about equal heat but are sweeter and fruitier in flavor. They have a bit of a wider range on the Scoville scale so there is a chance you can end up with a bigger kick.

How to Make Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Chimichurri

1. Marinate aromatics. Combine the red wine vinegar, salt, garlic, shallots and fresno pepper in a medium bowl and let stand for 10 minutes.
2. Make the chimichurri. Place the cilantro, parsley and oregano and red wine vinegar mixture in a blender. Pulse at a low speed for about 30 seconds while slowly adding ¼ cup of the olive oil. Stop the blender and stir in the rest of the olive oil and the black pepper. Add the sugar to adjust the acidity if needed.
3. Sear steak. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and sear until browned on one side, about 4 minutes.
4. Continue to cook. Flip the steak and continue to cook until browned, about another 4 minutes for medium-rare.
5. Let the meat rest. Transfer the meat to a cutting board and let the meat set for 10 minutes before cutting. Thinly slice the meat across the grain.
6. Serve. Arrange the sliced grilled steak on a platter and spoon the chimichurri sauce over the top.