Best Skirt Steak Marinade with Chimichurri

Skirt steak marinade recipe with chimichurri is your ticket to an unforgettable meal. There’s something truly magical that happens when tender, flavorful skirt steak meets the vibrant, herbaceous punch of chimichurri. It’s a combination that has captivated taste buds for generations, and for good reason. This isn’t just another steak; it’s an experience. People adore this dish because it’s incredibly satisfying yet surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressive backyard barbecues. What truly sets this skirt steak marinade recipe with chimichurri apart is the perfect harmony of rich, savory beef and the bright, zesty sauce. The marinade infuses the steak with depth, while the chimichurri cuts through the richness with its fresh herbs, garlic, and vinegar. Get ready to elevate your grilling game!

Skirt Steak Marinade Recipe with Chimichurri Recipe

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a perfectly grilled skirt steak. Its rich, beefy flavor and tender texture make it a standout choice for any meal, but what truly elevates it from great to unforgettable is a vibrant, zesty marinade and a bright, herbaceous chimichurri sauce. This recipe combines both, ensuring your skirt steak is bursting with flavor from the inside out. The marinade tenderizes and infuses the steak with a complex savory and slightly citrusy profile, while the chimichurri adds a fresh, punchy counterpoint that cuts through the richness of the meat. We’re going to walk through how to create this dynamic duo, from preparing the marinade to whipping up that irresistible sauce. Get ready for a grilling experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

Skirt Steak Marinade Instructions

The marinade is the foundation of flavor for our skirt steak. It’s a simple yet potent combination of ingredients designed to tenderize the meat and impart a delicious depth of flavor. The citrus juices, specifically the orange and lime juice, work to break down the tough muscle fibers in the skirt steak, making it more tender. The soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce provide a salty, umami base, while the apple cider vinegar adds a touch of acidity to brighten everything up. Don’t forget the garlic – it’s essential for that savory punch!

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl or a large zip-top bag, whisk together the 2/3 cup olive oil, 1/2 cup fresh orange juice, 1/3 cup fresh lime juice, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce, and 3 tablespoons of apple cider or red grape juice vinegar. Ensure these liquids are well combined. The combination of acids and savory sauces will work magic on the steak.
2. Add Garlic and Season: Add the 4 minced garlic cloves to the marinade mixture. Stir well to distribute the garlic evenly. Now, season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the soy sauce is already salty, so start with a moderate amount of salt and adjust if necessary after tasting the marinade (if you choose to taste it – be cautious with raw ingredients!).
3. Marinate the Skirt Steak: Place the 2-3 pounds of skirt steak into the marinade. Ensure the steak is fully submerged or coated evenly. If using a bowl, turn the steak occasionally to ensure all sides are exposed to the marinade. If using a zip-top bag, press out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent oxidation and ensure maximum contact. Marinate the steak in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, and up to 4 hours. For skirt steak, a shorter marinating time is often best to avoid the citrus “cooking” the steak too much, which can lead to a mushy texture. 30 minutes to 1 hour is usually perfect.

Chimichurri Sauce Instructions

While your skirt steak is happily marinating, it’s the perfect time to whip up our vibrant chimichurri sauce. This Argentinian staple is a fresh, herbaceous, and slightly spicy condiment that is the perfect foil for rich, grilled meats. It’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The key here is using fresh herbs; they are non-negotiable for authentic chimichurri.

1. Prepare the Herbs and Onion: Finely chop the 1 cup of fresh parsley and the 1 cup of fresh cilantro. The finer you chop them, the better the texture of your chimichurri will be. In a separate small bowl, finely dice the 1/2 medium onion. The smaller the dice, the more integrated the onion will be into the sauce. Mince the 3 garlic cloves for the chimichurri.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, cilantro, diced onion, and minced garlic. Add the 3 tablespoons of fresh lime juice to the herb mixture. This bright acidity is crucial for cutting through the richness of the steak and balancing the flavors of the sauce.
3. Emulsify with Olive Oil: Drizzle in the 1/4 to 1/3 cup of olive oil. Start with 1/4 cup and add more if you prefer a looser consistency. Stir vigorously to combine all the ingredients. The olive oil will help to emulsify the sauce, creating a more cohesive and flavorful condiment. Season the chimichurri generously with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the chimichurri to sit at room temperature for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. You can also make it a few hours ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; just let it come to room temperature before serving.

Grilling the Skirt Steak

Once your steak has marinated and your chimichurri is ready, it’s time to grill! Skirt steak cooks quickly due to its relatively thin cut, so keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking.

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. A hot grill is essential for getting a beautiful sear on the steak.
2. Grill the Steak: Remove the skirt steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the used marinade. Place the steak on the hot grill. For medium-rare, grill for about 3-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of your steak and the heat of your grill. Skirt steak benefits from high heat and a quick cook. You want a nice char on the outside and a juicy, pink center.
3. Rest and Slice: Once grilled to your desired doneness, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. After resting, slice the skirt steak against the grain. Skirt steak has a very distinct grain, and slicing against it is key to achieving maximum tenderness. Serve immediately with generous dollops of your fresh chimichurri sauce. Enjoy the incredible flavors!

Conclusion:

There you have it – a fantastic skirt steak marinade recipe that, when paired with our vibrant chimichurri, creates a truly unforgettable meal. This combination is a winner because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. The marinade tenderizes the steak and infuses it with savory notes, while the fresh, herby chimichurri cuts through the richness and adds a zesty punch. It’s the perfect balance that makes every bite exciting!

I love serving this skirt steak with grilled corn on the cob, a simple side salad, or even some roasted sweet potatoes for a complete and satisfying dinner. Don’t be afraid to experiment! You can adjust the herbs in your chimichurri to your liking, perhaps adding a bit of mint or even a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat. The beauty of this skirt steak marinade recipe is its adaptability.

So, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this a try. It’s a great way to elevate your grilling game and impress your family and friends with a dish that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I marinate the skirt steak for longer than recommended?

While a few extra hours won’t hurt, marinating skirt steak for too long (more than 24 hours) can sometimes make the texture mushy, especially with acidic ingredients in the marinade. Stick to the recommended time for the best results.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley for the chimichurri?

Fresh parsley is key for that bright, classic chimichurri flavor. If you absolutely can’t find it, you could try substituting with a mix of fresh cilantro and a little fresh oregano, but the taste will be different. It’s worth seeking out fresh parsley for the authentic experience!

Skirt Steak Marinade Recipe with Chimichurri

A flavorful marinade for skirt steak paired with a vibrant and herbaceous chimichurri sauce. Perfect for grilling.

Prep Time
20 Minutes

Cook Time
15 Minutes

Total Time
35 Minutes

Servings
4-6 servings

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2-3 pounds skirt steak
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh parsley
• 1 cup fresh cilantro
• 1/4-1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion (diced)
• 3 garlic cloves
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Combine olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic in a bowl. Whisk well.
2. Step 2
   Place skirt steak in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours.
3. Step 3
   While the steak marinates, prepare the chimichurri. In a food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, diced onion, and garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped.
4. Step 4
   With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and lime juice until the sauce is well combined but still has some texture.
5. Step 5
   Season chimichurri with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
6. Step 6
   Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove steak from marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
7. Step 7
   Grill skirt steak for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
8. Step 8
   Serve skirt steak sliced, topped with chimichurri sauce.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.