Skirt Steak with Avocado Chimichurri: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

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Grilling season is always something to look forward to, and when you have the perfect recipe in hand, it makes everything so much better. There’s something uniquely satisfying about the combination of a perfectly seared piece of skirt steak with a zesty, creamy topping. And if you haven’t tried skirt steak with avocado chimichurri, you’re in for a real treat. This recipe brings a modern twist to the classic Argentine chimichurri sauce, turning it into a creamy, refreshing topping that pairs wonderfully with the savory richness of the steak.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into why skirt steak and avocado chimichurri work so well together, the step-by-step process to make this dish, and how you can elevate it even further. By the end, you’ll not only have a foolproof recipe but also the know-how to impress your guests with your culinary skills.

Why Skirt Steak and Avocado Chimichurri Work So Well Together

If you’ve ever had skirt steak, you know it’s a flavorful cut with a rich, beefy taste and a tender texture when cooked right. The beauty of skirt steak lies in its ability to absorb the heat quickly, which is why it’s perfect for high-heat cooking methods like grilling or pan-searing. When prepared correctly, it gives you the perfect balance of tenderness and chew, with a satisfying crust on the outside.   Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Now, when you add avocado chimichurri sauce to the mix, magic happens. Chimichurri, a staple in Argentine cuisine, is typically made with fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley, along with garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. The traditional version is tangy and zesty, making it the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats. By adding avocado, you introduce a creamy richness that complements the sharpness of the vinegar and the heat from the red pepper flakes, transforming the sauce into something uniquely indulgent yet fresh.

This recipe isn’t just a simple steak with sauce; it’s a well-rounded meal that balances richness, spice, and freshness in every bite. Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or just looking for a different way to enjoy skirt steak, this dish has everything to offer.

Ingredients for Skirt Steak with Avocado Chimichurri

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to gather all the ingredients for both the skirt steak and the avocado chimichurri. Let’s break it down into two easy-to-follow lists so you can prepare ahead of time.

Skirt Steak Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Skirt Steak	1 pound
Kosher Salt	1 teaspoon
Black Pepper	½ teaspoon
Olive Oil	2 tablespoons

These ingredients form the backbone of your steak preparation. You’ll notice that they are all simple, which is perfect because the star of this recipe is the steak itself. The kosher salt and black pepper are the essential seasonings for the steak, and olive oil will be used to help sear it perfectly.

Avocado Chimichurri Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Cilantro Leaves	1 cup, packed
Parsley Leaves	1 cup, packed
Garlic (roughly chopped)	1 tablespoon
Kosher Salt	½ teaspoon
Ground Cumin	½ teaspoon
Red Pepper Flakes	½ teaspoon
Red Wine Vinegar	¼ cup
Extra Virgin Olive Oil	½ cup
Avocado	1 medium, diced

This chimichurri sauce is where the magic happens. The combination of fresh herbs, vinegar, and olive oil is a classic, and the addition of avocado makes it a creamy, irresistible topping for the steak. You’ll use a food processor to blend everything, making it easy and quick to prepare.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Skirt Steak with Avocado Chimichurri

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to break down the cooking process into clear, simple steps. Don’t worry; it’s easier than it sounds!

How to Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

1. Combine the Herbs and Spices: In a food processor, add the cilantro, parsley, garlic, kosher salt, ground cumin, and red pepper flakes. Pulse about 5 times to chop the leaves into a coarse consistency. You don’t want to over-process it, so just a few quick pulses will do.
2. Add the Vinegar and Olive Oil: Add the red wine vinegar to the mixture, and pulse another 5 times. This will help combine the vinegar with the herbs, allowing the flavors to meld. Then, pour in the olive oil and pulse 5 more times. You’ll want to achieve a coarse, emulsified sauce that has just enough texture but is still pourable.
3. Add the Avocado: Now, transfer the chimichurri sauce to a bowl and gently fold in the diced avocado. The avocado will add a creamy richness that will soften the flavor of the sauce and provide a wonderful contrast to the steak’s savory profile. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce until you’re ready to serve it.

How to Cook Skirt Steak to Perfection

1. Prep the Steak: If your skirt steak is particularly large, feel free to cut it into 2 or 3 smaller pieces for easier cooking. Pat the steak dry with paper towels—this step is crucial for achieving that perfect sear. Once dry, generously season both sides of the steak with kosher salt and black pepper.
2. Heat the Pan: Place a large cast-iron skillet over high heat and allow it to warm for about 3 minutes. It’s important that the pan is hot before you start cooking, as this will give the steak a beautiful sear.
3. Cook the Steak: Add olive oil to the hot pan, and then carefully place the steak in the skillet. Using tongs, gently press down on the steak to ensure that it makes good contact with the pan. Sear for 2-4 minutes on one side until it’s deeply browned, then flip the steak over and cook for another 2-4 minutes. The exact time depends on your desired level of doneness—aim for medium-rare for the best results, but feel free to adjust for your preferences.
4. Rest the Steak: Once your steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the pan and transfer it to a cutting board. Loosely cover the steak with foil and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your steak is juicy and tender when sliced.
5. Slice and Serve: After the steak has rested, slice it against the grain into thin, ¼-inch slices. This is crucial to ensuring the steak remains tender and easy to chew. Serve the sliced steak with a generous drizzle of the avocado chimichurri sauce, or place the sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Skirt Steak with Avocado Chimichurri

To help you get the best results from this recipe, here are a few extra tips that can make a huge difference:

• Skirt Steak Alternatives: If skirt steak isn’t available, consider using flank steak or hanger steak. These cuts are similar in texture and flavor, so they’ll still work wonderfully with the chimichurri sauce.
• Make-Ahead Tips: Chimichurri sauce can be made a day or two ahead of time, and it often tastes even better after it sits for a bit. Just be sure to fold in the avocado right before serving.
• Grilling Option: If you prefer grilling your steak, simply preheat your grill to high heat and follow the same steps for searing the steak. Grilling will add an extra layer of smoky flavor that complements the chimichurri beautifully.

Common Questions About Skirt Steak with Avocado Chimichurri

Can I substitute the avocado in the chimichurri?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of avocado or don’t have one on hand, you can skip it entirely, or you could add Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. Some people also like to use sour cream or even a bit of mayonnaise as an alternative.

How do I know when my skirt steak is done?

To check the doneness of your steak, you can use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F. Another way is to press gently on the steak—if it feels firm but still slightly springy, it’s probably medium-rare. Resting the steak for 10 minutes will also help you maintain the perfect texture.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Red wine vinegar is ideal for chimichurri, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute white wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar. Just be mindful that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still work well.

Is chimichurri sauce spicy?

Chimichurri can be mildly spicy due to the red pepper flakes, but it’s not overwhelmingly hot. If you prefer less heat, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.

Conclusion: A Perfect Pairing for Any Occasion

Skirt steak with avocado chimichurri is a dish that will impress anyone who tastes it. The juicy, tender skirt steak combined with the creamy, tangy avocado chimichurri is a flavor-packed meal that works for any occasion—whether you’re grilling for family, hosting a dinner party, or just indulging in a delicious weeknight dinner.

Now that you know exactly how to prepare this dish, there’s nothing stopping you from mastering it in your kitchen. Give it a try, and let the flavors speak for themselves. Your taste buds will thank you!

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