Name: Olive Chimichurri Steak with Padron Peppers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak; 8 oz padron peppers; 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, packed; 3 cloves garlic; 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; Salt and pepper, to taste

The sizzle of a perfectly grilled steak, combined with the punchy brightness of chimichurri, is enough to make even the most stoic cook swoon. Add in some lightly charred padron peppers, and you have a dish that dances on your palate and sings to your soul. Olive chimichurri steak with padron peppers isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that sparks joy and ignites laughter around the dinner table.

Picture this: it’s a warm evening, friends are gathered around, and the aroma of garlic and herbs fills the air. As you serve this vibrant dish, everyone leans in closer, captivated by the enticing colors and rich scents. You can almost hear their stomachs growling in anticipation! This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or cozy weeknight dinners when you want to impress without stressing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The olive chimichurri steak with padron peppers is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The flavor profile is a delightful mix of herbaceous freshness and smoky goodness.
Its visual appeal will wow your guests with vibrant colors on every plate.
Versatile enough for any occasion, whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors.

Ingredients for olive chimichurri steak with padron peppers

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Steak (Ribeye or Sirloin): Choose a well-marbled cut for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Padron Peppers: These little green gems add a mild heat; select firm ones for the best results.
Fresh Parsley: Flat-leaf parsley works best; it contributes fresh herbal notes to your chimichurri.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for authentic flavor in your chimichurri.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide robust flavor; ensure they are firm and fragrant.
Red Wine Vinegar: This adds tangy brightness; look for unfiltered varieties if possible.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors in the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make olive chimichurri steak with padron peppers

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri

In a food processor or blender, combine fresh parsley, garlic cloves, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Pulse until finely chopped but not puréed—aim for a chunky texture that will cling beautifully to your steak.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Place your chosen steak in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour half of the chimichurri over it. Make sure every inch is covered! Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—longer if possible—for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

While your steak absorbs those fantastic flavors, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). If you’re using a cast-iron skillet indoors, heat it up on medium-high as well.

Step 4: Cook the Steak

Remove your marinated steak from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before grilling. Grill each side for about 4-6 minutes or until it’s cooked to your desired doneness (medium-rare is usually best here).

Step 5: Sauté Padron Peppers

While your steak rests (yes, resting is crucial), toss those lovely padron peppers onto your grill or skillet. Cook them until they blister and char slightly—about three minutes should do it. Season lightly with salt as they cook.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Slice your rested steak against the grain and plate it alongside those glorious padron peppers. Drizzle more chimichurri over everything—you can never have too much!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it! Olive chimichurri steak with padron peppers not only elevates casual dinners but also makes you feel like a culinary rockstar—all while being incredibly straightforward to whip up! So next time you gather friends or family around the table, bring out this masterpiece and watch as smiles spread like wildfire. Enjoy!

You Must Know

This olive chimichurri steak with Padron peppers brings a delightful twist to your dinner plate.
The marinade infuses flavor while the peppers add a fun pop of heat.
It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating your steak in a zesty olive chimichurri sauce for at least 30 minutes. While it marinates, prepare your Padron peppers. Sear the steak to perfection first, then cook the peppers until blistered and slightly charred for that irresistible crunch.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the steak for chicken or pork if you prefer. Add additional spices like smoked paprika or even some fresh herbs like cilantro for a unique flair. You could also toss in other veggies alongside those Padron peppers, like zucchini or mushrooms.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover olive chimichurri steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat to keep it juicy and flavorful, avoiding the microwave if possible.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When grilling, let your steak rest after cooking; this keeps it tender and juicy.
Always taste your chimichurri before using; adjust salt and acidity as needed.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking Padron peppers; give them room to blister properly.

Sometimes, I whip up this olive chimichurri steak with Padron peppers when friends come over, and they always rave about it! One friend’s reaction was so dramatic that I thought I might need to call an ambulance for their taste buds!

FAQs:

What is olive chimichurri steak with padron peppers?

Olive chimichurri steak with padron peppers is a flavorful dish that combines grilled steak marinated in a vibrant olive oil-based chimichurri sauce, paired with blistered padron peppers. The chimichurri sauce typically includes fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and spices, giving the steak a zesty kick. Padron peppers add a mild heat and unique texture, making this dish both delicious and visually appealing. This combination offers a delightful balance of flavors, perfect for any grilling occasion or special dinner.

How do I make olive chimichurri?

To make olive chimichurri, start by combining fresh parsley, oregano, garlic, red pepper flakes, and salt in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped. Then, gradually add extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar while blending until you achieve a smooth consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This vibrant sauce enhances the flavor of grilled meats and vegetables. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to one week for continuous enjoyment.

Can I use other types of steak for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various cuts of steak for olive chimichurri steak with padron peppers. While flank steak or sirloin works well due to their tenderness and flavor absorption, ribeye or filet mignon are also excellent choices. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the cut to ensure perfect doneness. Regardless of your choice, marinating the steak in the chimichurri sauce will enhance its taste significantly.

What can I serve with olive chimichurri steak?

Olive chimichurri steak pairs wonderfully with various sides. Grilled vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini complement the dish nicely. A fresh salad with mixed greens and cherry tomatoes adds brightness to the meal. For something heartier, consider serving it alongside roasted potatoes or rice pilaf. These options create a balanced plate that highlights the flavors of the steak and padron peppers beautifully.

Conclusion for olive chimichurri steak with padron peppers:

In summary, olive chimichurri steak with padron peppers is an enticing dish that brings together rich flavors and vibrant textures. The herbaceous chimichurri sauce elevates the juicy steak while the mild heat from blistered padron peppers adds depth to each bite. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe promises to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy this delightful combination for an unforgettable culinary experience!