Surf & Turf with Chimichurri

Get ready to indulge in the ultimate Surf & Turf with Chimichurri, where succulent steak meets tender shrimp, all topped with a tangy, herby chimichurri sauce. This dish is a showstopper for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a special dinner or treating yourself to something indulgent. The rich flavors of the steak and shrimp are perfectly balanced by the bold, zesty chimichurri, making each bite a party for your taste buds. It’s a dish that feels fancy without being overly complicated—plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Why You’ll Love Surf & Turf with Chimichurri

Here’s why this dish is absolutely irresistible:

• Delicious Duo: The combination of perfectly cooked steak and shrimp is a classic for a reason! Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, it’s the best of both worlds.
• Bold Chimichurri: The fresh, garlicky, and tangy chimichurri sauce takes everything to the next level, adding a vibrant and mouthwatering kick.
• Simple yet Impressive: The ingredients are simple, but the flavors are extraordinary. Serve this up for a fancy dinner that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
• Customizable: Choose your favorite cut of steak (ribeye, filet, strip) and adjust the shrimp seasoning to suit your taste. Plus, chimichurri is endlessly customizable to your herb preferences.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s date night, a celebration, or a weekend treat, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients in Surf & Turf with Chimichurri

This meal features juicy steak, tender shrimp, and a fresh, zesty chimichurri sauce. Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Surf & Turf:

• Steak (Ribeye, Filet, or Strip): Choose your favorite cut of steak for the perfect sear and juicy flavor.
• Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp work best for this dish.
• Olive Oil: For searing the steak and shrimp.
• Garlic: Adds rich, aromatic flavor to both the steak and shrimp.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning.

For the Chimichurri:

• Fresh Parsley: The base herb for chimichurri, providing a fresh and vibrant flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro: Adds a citrusy, earthy taste that pairs beautifully with the parsley.
• Red Wine Vinegar: The acidity balances the richness of the meat and shrimp.
• Garlic: The more garlic, the better! It’s the heart of the chimichurri.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For a bit of heat to balance out the fresh herbs.
• Olive Oil: To help emulsify the sauce and bring everything together.
• Lemon Juice: For an extra zing that brightens the sauce.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste.

(Note: The full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s break down the steps to create this spectacular surf & turf:

Make the Chimichurri

Start by preparing the chimichurri sauce. In a food processor or blender, combine the parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Set aside to let the flavors meld together while you cook the steak and shrimp.

Cook the Steak

Preheat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side (depending on your preferred level of doneness). For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F. Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes.

Cook the Shrimp

In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque. Be sure not to overcook them!

Serve & Drizzle with Chimichurri

Once everything is cooked, slice the steak against the grain and plate it alongside the shrimp. Generously drizzle the chimichurri sauce over both the steak and shrimp. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 2
Calories per serving: 500
Total Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 220mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 7g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 45g
Vitamin D: 0µg
Calcium: 80mg
Iron: 4mg
Potassium: 700mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Surf & Turf with Chimichurri

This surf & turf dish is full of flavor and doesn’t need much more to make it a satisfying meal. Here are a few ideas to round out your plate:

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, sweet potatoes, or a medley of colorful veggies to balance out the richness of the steak and shrimp.
• Rice or Quinoa: A simple side of rice or quinoa would soak up the flavorful chimichurri and complement the dish beautifully.
• Grilled Corn: Grilled corn on the cob adds a nice charred sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory steak and shrimp.
• Side Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the meat and chimichurri.

Additional Tips

• Steak Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to get your steak just right. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F, medium is 140°F, and well-done is 160°F.
• Chimichurri Tip: Let the chimichurri sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop. It also gets better if made a few hours ahead!
• Shrimp Tip: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp! They cook quickly and should be just pink and opaque.
• Extra Flavor: For an added depth of flavor, marinate the shrimp in a little of the chimichurri sauce before cooking.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different cut of steak?
A1: Yes! Ribeye, filet mignon, or strip steaks all work wonderfully for this recipe. Choose whichever cut you prefer or have on hand.

Q2: Can I make the chimichurri ahead of time?
A2: Yes, chimichurri can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. In fact, letting it sit overnight enhances the flavor!

Q3: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A3: Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.

Q4: Can I grill the steak and shrimp instead of pan-frying them?
A4: Yes, grilling adds a great smoky flavor to both the steak and shrimp. Just be sure to keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook quickly on the grill.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the steak and shrimp in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking.

Q6: Can I substitute the steak for chicken?
A6: Yes, you can substitute the steak for grilled chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to cook the chicken fully through (165°F internal temperature).

Q7: Can I make this dish for a crowd?
A7: Absolutely! Simply increase the amounts of steak and shrimp, and you can either cook the items in batches or use a larger skillet.

Q8: How can I make the chimichurri spicier?
A8: Add more red pepper flakes or a small chopped jalapeño to the chimichurri for an extra kick.

Q9: Can I make this dish without chimichurri?
A9: While the chimichurri sauce really elevates this dish, you could serve the steak and shrimp with a different sauce, like garlic butter or aioli, if you prefer.

Q10: Can I use other herbs in the chimichurri?
A10: Yes! You can experiment with other herbs like oregano, mint, or even basil to change the flavor profile of the chimichurri.

Conclusion

This Surf & Turf with Chimichurri is an absolute winner. The rich, juicy steak and perfectly cooked shrimp paired with the bold, zesty chimichurri sauce are a match made in heaven. It’s a dish that’s guaranteed to impress anyone at your dinner table—whether it’s a special celebration or just a casual weeknight treat. So fire up your skillet or grill, get that chimichurri sauce ready, and enjoy a flavorful feast that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

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