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+ servings

California Chimichurri Steak Salad with Avocado and Black Beans

A vibrant California-style bowl with perfectly seared steak, creamy Hass avocado, and a zesty homemade chimichurri over mixed greens.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Quick Meals, Salad
Cuisine: Argentinian, California Fusion, South American
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

For the Chimichurri
  • 1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, packed
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
  • 3 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil (preferably California)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano Mexican oregano if available
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Steak
  • 1 pound sirloin steak (about 1 inch thick) or top sirloin
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Salad Bowl
  • 6 cups mixed salad greens (spring mix or arugula)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 medium English cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 large Hass avocado, diced California-grown
  • 1/2 cup cooked corn kernels (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed

Method
 

Prepare the Chimichurri
  1. In a food processor, combine the parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until the herbs and garlic are finely chopped but not a paste, scraping down the sides as needed.
  2. With the motor running on low, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil until the sauce is well combined and emulsified. Taste and adjust salt or vinegar if needed. Set aside at room temperature.
Cook the Steak
  1. Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with the kosher salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully place the steak in the hot skillet.
  3. Sear the steak for 3 to 5 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temperature 130 to 135 degrees F), or until your desired doneness. Avoid moving the steak too much to develop a good crust.
  4. Transfer the steak to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Then slice against the grain into thin strips.
Assemble the Salad Bowls
  1. In a large bowl, gently toss together the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, diced avocado, corn, and black beans.
  2. Divide the salad mixture evenly among 4 serving bowls.
  3. Top each bowl with slices of the rested steak. Drizzle generously with the chimichurri sauce and serve right away.

Nutrition

Calories: 485kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 36gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 720mgFiber: 9gSugar: 6g

Notes

For best flavor, make the chimichurri at least 30 minutes ahead to let the herbs meld. Any leftover chimichurri keeps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne. The steak can also be grilled outdoors over high heat for a smoky char. Slice the steak against the grain for the most tender bite.

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