Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever tasted a dish that transports you straight to the heart of a summer barbecue? The Zesty Grilled Picanha Steak with Chimichurri Bliss is one such culinary delight, bursting with vibrant flavors and the smoky aroma of perfectly grilled beef. The tender picanha steak, seasoned to perfection, pairs beautifully with a fresh, zesty chimichurri sauce that elevates every bite.
This dish is not only perfect for weekend gatherings but also ideal for any occasion when you want to impress your guests or indulge in a gourmet meal at home. Picture yourself standing by the grill, surrounded by friends and family, as the tantalizing scent wafts through the air. The anticipation builds as you slice into the juicy steak, revealing its succulent interior. With every mouthful, you’ll experience an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Key Ingredients For Zesty Grilled Picanha Steak with Chimichurri Bliss
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Picanha Steak: This flavorful cut from the top of the sirloin is known for its rich taste and tenderness. Look for well-marbled pieces for the best results.
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Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor of both the meat and chimichurri sauce.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth to the chimichurri and balances out the richness of the steak.
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Fresh Parsley: Use flat-leaf parsley for its robust flavor profile; it’s a key ingredient in chimichurri.
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Red Wine Vinegar: This tangy vinegar brightens up the chimichurri sauce, adding a delightful acidity.
For the seasoning:
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Sea Salt: Use coarse sea salt to season the steak; it helps enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Instructions For Zesty Grilled Picanha Steak with Chimichurri Bliss
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, red wine vinegar, and salt. Whisk until well blended. Set aside some marinade to use later for drizzling on the steak.
Second Step: Season the Picanha
Generously rub sea salt all over the picanha steak. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while you preheat your grill.
Third Step: Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 450°F or 232°C). Ensure that grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Fourth Step: Grill the Picanha
Place the seasoned picanha on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare. Use tongs to flip it without piercing the meat.
Fifth Step: Rest Before Slicing
Once cooked to your liking, remove from grill and let rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Sixth Step: Slice and Serve
Thinly slice against the grain into strips. Drizzle with reserved chimichurri sauce before serving for an added burst of flavor.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
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Let It Rest: Always allow meat to rest after cooking; this ensures maximum juiciness when sliced.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance flavor significantly; avoid dried herbs in chimichurri.
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Slice Against Grain: Cutting against the grain makes each bite more tender and easier to chew.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Zesty Grilled Picanha Steak
To achieve the best results with your Zesty Grilled Picanha Steak with Chimichurri Bliss, consider these cooking tips. Start by selecting high-quality picanha, known for its tenderness and flavor. Marinate the steak for at least an hour to enhance its taste. Use a hot grill to create a beautiful sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Monitor the internal temperature closely; aim for medium-rare (130-135°F) for optimal tenderness. Let the steak rest for at least 10 minutes after grilling before slicing it against the grain.
Serving Suggestions
You can elevate your Zesty Grilled Picanha Steak with Chimichurri Bliss when served alongside various side dishes. Consider pairing it with:
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Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition.
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Rice or Quinoa: A light, fluffy grain complements the richness of the steak.
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Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad balances out the flavors and provides freshness.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Zesty Grilled Picanha Steak with Chimichurri Bliss, store them properly to maintain their quality. Allow the steak to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently to prevent drying out. A brief stint in a hot skillet or microwave will work wonders.
Nutritional Information
The Zesty Grilled Picanha Steak with Chimichurri Bliss is not only delicious but also offers a good mix of nutrients. A typical serving provides protein, essential fats, and vitamins from fresh herbs in chimichurri. This dish is ideal for those following a high-protein diet or looking to enjoy flavorful meals without excess carbs.
FAQs
What is picanha steak?
Picanha steak is a popular cut of beef in Brazil, known for its rich flavor and tenderness. It comes from the top of the rump and has a thick layer of fat that adds juiciness during cooking. The unique texture makes it perfect for grilling or roasting, allowing you to enjoy its robust taste when prepared correctly. Many people love using picanha for barbecues because it absorbs marinades well, enhancing its natural flavors.
How do I make chimichurri sauce?
Making chimichurri sauce is simple and requires just a few ingredients. Start by chopping fresh parsley, garlic, and oregano finely. Combine these herbs with red wine vinegar and olive oil in a bowl, mixing well until you achieve a sauce-like consistency. You can adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. This vibrant sauce pairs perfectly with your Zesty Grilled Picanha Steak, adding freshness that enhances each bite.
Can I use other cuts of meat?
Absolutely! While picanha is ideal for this recipe due to its flavor profile, you can substitute other cuts like flank steak or sirloin if picanha isn’t available. Just be mindful of cooking times as different cuts have varying tenderness levels. Adjust marinating time accordingly to ensure that your alternative cut benefits from similar flavors provided by the zesty marinade.
What sides pair well with picanha steak?
When serving Zesty Grilled Picanha Steak with Chimichurri Bliss, consider sides that complement its rich flavors. Fresh salads made with greens such as arugula or spinach work well due to their lightness. Roasted potatoes or grilled corn add heartiness without overpowering the dish’s elegance. Additionally, serving crusty bread can enhance your dining experience by soaking up leftover chimichurri sauce on the plate!
Zesty Grilled Picanha Steak with Chimichurri Bliss
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of Zesty Grilled Picanha Steak with Chimichurri Bliss. This dish features a tender, juicy picanha steak grilled to perfection, complemented by a vibrant chimichurri sauce that adds a zesty kick. Ideal for summer barbecues or intimate dinners, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs picanha steak
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp coarse sea salt (for seasoning)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, red wine vinegar, and sea salt. Reserve some marinade for drizzling.
- Generously rub sea salt over the picanha steak and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (450°F).
- Grill the picanha for about 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, using tongs to flip.
- Remove from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes.
- Slice against the grain into strips and drizzle with reserved chimichurri before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg