When the sun sets and the grill is fired up, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of marinated skirt steak sizzling away. I remember the first time I hosted a backyard barbecue, feeling the excitement build as I introduced my friends to this Perfect Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri. The vibrant flavors of citrus and rich umami came together in a dance that tantalized our taste buds, making every bite an explosion of joy and warmth.
With just a bit of prep time, you can transform a humble cut of steak into a show-stopping centerpiece. Whether you’re treating family to a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a weekend gathering, this recipe promises to elevate your grilling game. Plus, it’s gluten-free and quick to whip up, making it an ideal option for any home cook. Join me in creating a meal that not only satisfies hunger but also brings people together around the grill!
Why Is This Perfect Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri a Must-Try?
Bursting with Flavor: This marinade combines zesty citrus and rich umami, ensuring your steak is tender and juicy.
Quick and Easy: With just a few hours of marinating, you can have a delicious meal ready with minimal fuss.
Versatile Pairing: Ideal with grilled veggies or a fresh salad, making dinner planning a breeze.
Gluten-Free Delight: Use tamari instead of soy sauce, and you’re all set for gluten-free guests.
Crowd-Pleaser: Truly a dish that will wow your family and friends, making it a go-to for gatherings!
Get ready to impress everyone with this fantastic recipe, your grilling will never be the same!
Perfect Skirt Steak Marinade Ingredients
• Get ready to elevate your steak experience!
For the Marinade
- Olive Oil – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor.
- Fresh Orange Juice – Provides sweetness and acidity; fresh lemon juice can be a delightful alternative.
- Fresh Lime Juice – Enhances flavor with tartness; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Soy Sauce – Adds depth and umami; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Contributes tanginess for a flavor boost.
- Apple Cider or Red Wine Vinegar – Adds acidity; both work well to balance the marinade.
- Garlic (minced) – Provides aromatic flavor; freshly minced is preferred over powdered.
- Skirt Steak – Main protein that’s flavorful; flank steak is a suitable substitute if needed.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing all flavors and creating a balanced dish.
For the Chimichurri
- Fresh Parsley – Offers a refreshing taste; it’s the star herb in chimichurri.
- Fresh Cilantro – Adds a distinct flavor profile to the chimichurri; use it for a fresh kick.
- Onion (diced) – Introduces sweetness and crunch; finely chop for a smoother texture.
- Fresh Garlic (for chimichurri) – Enhances the overall flavor profile; always fresh is best.
- Red Wine Vinegar (for chimichurri) – Provides tartness and balance; it complements the herbs beautifully.
- Optional: Red Pepper Flakes – Use for added heat in chimichurri if you enjoy a kick!
This Perfect Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri is bound to become a staple in your grilling repertoire!
How to Make Perfect Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri
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Prepare Marinade: In a blender, combine olive oil, fresh orange juice, fresh lime juice, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider or red wine vinegar, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth and well combined.
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Marinate Steak: Place the skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag, pour the marinade over it, seal the bag, and refrigerate for 6-24 hours. Remember, don’t exceed 24 hours to avoid mushiness.
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Prepare Chimichurri: In a blender or food processor, combine fresh parsley, fresh cilantro, diced onion, fresh garlic, lime juice, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until nicely combined, adjusting seasoning to taste.
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Grill Steak: Preheat your grill to high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, season generously with salt and pepper, and grill for 4-6 minutes on each side until beautifully charred and golden brown.
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Rest Steak: Once grilled, let your steak rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial to keep the juices locked in, resulting in a tender steak.
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Serve: Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips and drizzle your homemade chimichurri generously over the top just before serving.
Optional: Top with additional fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri?
When you’re ready to fire up the grill, pairing your marinated skirt steak with the right sides can transform your meal into a memorable feast.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side complements the rich flavors of the steak, adding freshness to each bite.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred sweetness from the corn brings a delightful contrast to the savory meat, making every mouthful a joyous harmony.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with herbs softens the bold flavors while providing a satisfying texture. It works as the perfect palate cleanser between bites of steak.
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Roasted Asparagus: With its tender crunch, roasted asparagus provides a nutritional punch and a lightness that balances the hearty nature of the steak.
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Classic Potato Salad: Creamy and tangy, this picnic favorite pairs well with grilled meat, inviting nostalgic flavors while cooling your palate after each savory bite.
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Zesty Tomato Salad: A medley of vibrant tomatoes tossed with basil and a drizzle of olive oil brightens up your plate, enhancing the meal’s visual appeal and freshness.
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Icy Cold Beer: Pair your skirt steak with a refreshing beer like a pale ale or lager to enhance the flavors, offering crispness with each sip.
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Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, indulging in rich, fudgy brownies caps off the meal perfectly, providing a sweet bite compared to the savory steak.
Creating a well-rounded dining experience is easy with these delectable pairings that celebrate the boldness of your skirt steak marinade!
Expert Tips for Perfect Skirt Steak Marinade
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Marination Time: Don’t exceed 24 hours: Marinading longer can result in mushy meat. Aim for 6-12 hours for best texture.
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Cut Against the Grain: For tender slices: Always slice the skirt steak against the grain to maximize tenderness and enjoyment.
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Preheat Grill: Ensure it’s hot enough: A properly preheated grill will give you those gorgeous sear marks and lock in flavors.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste your chimichurri: Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning; adding a little extra salt or lime juice can enhance the flavor.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh: Fresh herbs and citrus yield the best flavors, making your Perfect Skirt Steak Marinade irresistible.
How to Store and Freeze Perfect Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri
Fridge: Store leftover marinated steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep it fresh and tasty while retaining its delicious flavor.
Freezer: If you have extra marinade, it can be frozen in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. This way, you’ll have quick access to marinade for future grilling sessions.
Reheating: When ready to use leftovers, gently reheat the steak in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, being careful not to overcook. Enjoy this perfect skirt steak marinade with chimichurri as a delightful meal any day!
Skirt Steak Marinade Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this recipe to suit your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Replace any oil with coconut oil for a tropical twist that enhances the marinade’s richness.
- Citrus Medley: Use half orange juice and half grapefruit juice to add a unique fruity depth to the marinade.
- Herb Mix: Swap in chopped fresh oregano or thyme in the chimichurri for a different herbal note.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika to the marinade for a delightful smoky essence that will elevate your steak.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes in the chimichurri for extra heat, catering to those who love a little more fire!
- Vegan Option: Substitute skirt steak with marinated tofu or seitan, soaking them in the same marinade for a plant-based delight.
- Sweet Twist: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a hint of sweetness that beautifully balances the acidity.
- Different Drizzle: Experiment with a balsamic reduction instead of chimichurri for a sweet and tangy finish that’s just as satisfying.
Have fun exploring these variations and making this recipe your own!
Make Ahead Options
These Perfect Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri components are fantastic for meal prep, letting you savor the deliciousness even on the busiest nights! You can marinate the skirt steak up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those incredible flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. The chimichurri can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, keeping it bright and fresh. To maintain quality, ensure that the steak is fully sealed in the marinade and refrigerated properly. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the steak for 4-6 minutes on each side, let it rest, and drizzle that vibrant chimichurri on top for a spectacular finish!
Perfect Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right skirt steak?
Absolutely! When selecting skirt steak, look for pieces that are bright red with good marbling and minimal dark spots. Freshness is key, so avoid any that appears discolored or gives off an off-smell. The more marbled the steak, the more flavorful it will be once grilled!
How should I store leftover skirt steak?
Leftover marinated skirt steak can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it to avoid any condensation. For best taste, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep it tender and juicy.
Can I freeze the marinade for future use?
Absolutely! You can freeze any leftover marinade in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a resealable plastic bag. Next time you’re ready to grill, you’ll have flavorful marinade ready to go without any extra prep time!
What if my chimichurri is too thick or bland?
Very! If your chimichurri turns out too thick, simply blend in a little extra olive oil or lime juice until you reach your desired consistency. If you find the flavor bland, add more salt, crushed garlic, or an extra splash of red wine vinegar to enhance the brightness.
Is this recipe safe for gluten-free diets?
Yes! To keep this Perfect Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish without worry. Just be mindful of the Worcestershire sauce, which may also contain gluten; opt for a gluten-free brand to be safe.
How do I know when the steak is perfectly grilled?
To achieve that perfect char, grill your skirt steak for 4-6 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare. Always use an instant-read thermometer to be accurate. Remember, letting the steak rest for 5 minutes after grilling helps ensure it remains juicy and tender!
Perfect Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a blender, combine olive oil, fresh orange juice, fresh lime juice, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider or red wine vinegar, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth and well combined.
- Place the skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag, pour the marinade over it, seal the bag, and refrigerate for 6-24 hours.
- In a blender or food processor, combine fresh parsley, fresh cilantro, diced onion, fresh garlic, lime juice, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until nicely combined, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Preheat your grill to high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, season generously with salt and pepper, and grill for 4-6 minutes on each side.
- Once grilled, let your steak rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips and drizzle your homemade chimichurri generously over the top just before serving.