Skirt Steak with Avocado Chimichurri is a bold and flavorful dish that combines the tenderness of perfectly cooked skirt steak with a creamy, zesty chimichurri sauce. This recipe elevates the classic chimichurri by adding ripe avocado, creating a rich and velvety sauce that complements the smoky spices of the steak. Whether you’re grilling for a special occasion or preparing a weeknight meal, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests.

The combination of herbs, lime juice, and vinegar in the chimichurri brings freshness and tang, while the addition of avocado gives it a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the savory, charred steak. Skirt steak, known for its flavor and tenderness, is marinated with a blend of spices and seared to perfection, providing a perfect balance with the creamy chimichurri. Serve it with a side of grilled vegetables, rice, or a simple salad to complete this hearty, delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful and Smoky Skirt Steak

The skirt steak is seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cumin, infusing it with deep, smoky flavors that pair perfectly with the creamy avocado chimichurri.

2. Creamy Chimichurri Sauce

The addition of avocado to the traditional chimichurri sauce makes it rich and creamy, providing a unique twist on a classic Argentine condiment.

3. Quick and Easy to Prepare

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and weekend grilling sessions.

4. Versatile and Customizable

This recipe is easy to customize to your taste—adjust the level of spice in the chimichurri by adding more or less jalapeño, or experiment with different herbs for a personalized touch.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re cooking for a casual family meal or a dinner party, Skirt Steak with Avocado Chimichurri is a dish that will impress your guests with its bold flavors and vibrant presentation.

Ingredients

For the Steak:

Skirt steak
Olive oil
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Ground cumin
Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For the Avocado Chimichurri:

Large avocado (pitted and peeled)
Fresh parsley (chopped)
Fresh cilantro (chopped)
Fresh oregano (chopped)
Garlic cloves
Jalapeño (optional, seeds removed for less spice)
Olive oil
Red wine vinegar
Lime juice
Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Variations

Add More Heat

If you like your chimichurri spicier, add more jalapeño or even a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Grill the Steak

For an even smokier flavor, grill the skirt steak over high heat instead of pan-searing it. This will add a beautiful char and smoky flavor to the meat.

Make It Herb-Free

If you’re not a fan of certain herbs, feel free to swap out the cilantro, parsley, or oregano for your preferred herbs. Basil or mint could offer a fresh alternative.

Vegan Version

To make the chimichurri sauce vegan-friendly, omit any dairy-based ingredients (if any), and serve it with a grilled vegetable or plant-based protein instead of steak.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Rub the skirt steak with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the fridge) to allow the flavors to absorb.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the steak for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your steak cooked more. Remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Avocado Chimichurri

In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, parsley, cilantro, oregano, garlic, jalapeño (if using), olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Slice the rested skirt steak against the grain, and drizzle the avocado chimichurri sauce over the top. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Rest the Steak: Let the cooked steak rest for at least 5 minutes after removing it from the heat. This helps retain its juices, making the steak more tender and flavorful.
Balance the Chimichurri: If the chimichurri sauce is too thick, you can add a little more olive oil or lime juice to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs make a huge difference in the flavor of the chimichurri sauce. Avoid using dried herbs for the best results.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you like heat, leave some seeds in the jalapeño or add more chili peppers to the chimichurri. For a milder version, remove all the seeds.

How to Serve

Skirt Steak with Avocado Chimichurri is best served with simple sides that complement the bold flavors of the steak and sauce. Consider pairing it with:

Grilled or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions
A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
Rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal
Tortillas or crusty bread to scoop up the chimichurri sauce

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the sliced steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The chimichurri sauce can also be stored separately in a jar or container for up to 3 days.

Freezing

While the steak can be frozen, the avocado chimichurri sauce is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze well due to the avocado’s texture change. If you plan to freeze the steak, slice it beforehand and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat the steak, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds. Avoid overcooking it when reheating to preserve its tenderness.

FAQs

1. What is skirt steak?

Skirt steak is a long, thin cut of beef that is flavorful and tender when cooked properly. It is often used in dishes like fajitas and stir-fries.

2. Can I substitute skirt steak with another cut?

Yes, flank steak or hanger steak can be substituted for skirt steak in this recipe, although they may require slightly different cooking times.

3. Can I make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chimichurri sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.

4. How do I make the steak more tender?

To ensure your skirt steak is tender, make sure to slice it against the grain. This helps break down the muscle fibers and makes the steak easier to chew.

5. Can I grill the steak instead of pan-searing it?

Yes, grilling the skirt steak over high heat will add a nice smoky flavor to the dish. Just be sure to monitor the steak closely to avoid overcooking.

6. What can I use if I don’t have red wine vinegar?

You can substitute red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar, white wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar.

7. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, you can increase the heat in the chimichurri sauce by adding more jalapeño, chili flakes, or hot sauce.

8. How do I know when the skirt steak is done?

For medium-rare skirt steak, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy.

9. Can I use a different type of oil for the chimichurri?

Olive oil is the traditional choice for chimichurri, but you can use avocado oil or another neutral oil if you prefer.

10. Can I serve this dish with a side of mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Mashed potatoes would pair wonderfully with the skirt steak and creamy chimichurri, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Skirt Steak with Avocado Chimichurri is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The smoky skirt steak and creamy, herb-infused avocado chimichurri create a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Easy to make and sure to impress, this recipe is a must-try for steak lovers and anyone looking for a fresh take on a classic dish.