Name: Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 2 lb flank or skirt steak; 3 tbsp olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup fresh parsley; 1 cup fresh cilantro; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 cups mixed beans (cannellini, kidney, black, or chickpeas); 1/2 red onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp chopped fresh oregano or basil (optional)

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a hearty plate that blends bold flavors and vibrant textures. Steak chimichurri paired with a dense bean salad is that kind of meal—rich, zesty, and filling in all the right ways. Whether it’s summer grilling season or a cozy dinner night, this combo brings the best of smoky meat and wholesome legumes.

What makes this dish stand out is the brightness of the chimichurri sauce dancing over juicy grilled steak, offset by the earthy, hearty satisfaction of a chunky bean salad. It’s a balanced plate that feels indulgent yet nourishing, perfect for both casual weeknights and gatherings that need a little flair.

Why You’ll Love This Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad

You get the savory punch of perfectly cooked steak balanced by a herbaceous, tangy chimichurri and a salad that feels more like a main than a side. The textures are diverse, with creamy beans, crisp peppers, and just the right bite from onions and fresh herbs. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, protein-packed, and easily adjustable based on what beans you have in the pantry.

What Cut of Steak Should I Use for Chimichurri?

Flank steak or skirt steak are top choices. These cuts are flavorful and take well to grilling or pan-searing, plus they slice beautifully against the grain for tender bites. Ribeye or sirloin also work if you’re after something a bit juicier. Just aim for a cut that you can cook quickly over high heat and serve medium rare to medium for best results.

Ingredients for the Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad

This dish relies on a few fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients to create layers of flavor.

Steak – The star of the show, ideally flank or skirt steak for bold beefy flavor.

Olive Oil – Used in both the marinade and dressing, it adds richness.

Garlic – Essential for both the chimichurri and the salad dressing. Don’t skip it.

Parsley & Cilantro – Fresh herbs that make chimichurri bright and aromatic.

Red Wine Vinegar – Brings tang to the chimichurri and balance to the richness of the meat.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a mild kick to the sauce.

Salt & Pepper – To enhance every component.

Mixed Beans – Use canned cannellini, kidney, black, or chickpeas for convenience.

Red Onion – Adds bite and crunch to the bean salad.

Bell Peppers – Choose red and yellow for color and sweetness.

Lemon Juice – Brightens the bean salad dressing.

Fresh Oregano or Basil – Optional, but elevates the herbal notes in the salad.

Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad (1)

How To Make the Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad

Step 1: Make the Chimichurri

In a small food processor or by hand, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Blend until you get a loose, textured sauce. Set aside to allow flavors to develop.

Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Steak

Season your steak generously with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Grill or pan-sear over high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Toss the Dense Bean Salad

Rinse and drain your beans and place them in a large bowl. Add diced red onion, chopped bell peppers, a minced garlic clove, lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped fresh herbs. Toss to coat well and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the steak against the grain, drizzle generously with chimichurri, and plate alongside a hearty scoop of the bean salad. Serve immediately while the steak is warm.

How to Serve and Store Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad

This recipe easily feeds 4 hungry adults. It’s best served fresh, especially the steak, but you can refrigerate leftovers separately for up to 3 days. Store chimichurri in an airtight container in the fridge and use it as a sauce for eggs or roasted veggies later.

Reheat steak gently in a skillet or microwave just until warmed through, though it’s also delicious cold atop a fresh salad or tucked into a wrap.

What to Serve With Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad?

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet, charred corn is a natural pairing with chimichurri steak.

Garlic Bread

Perfect for soaking up any leftover chimichurri on your plate.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

The sweetness plays beautifully off the bold, garlicky sauce.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

A crisp, refreshing side that adds even more veggie brightness.

Chimichurri Rice

Double down on the sauce and make it part of a herbed rice side.

Sautéed Greens

Kale or Swiss chard with a little garlic balances the richness of the steak.

Grilled Pineapple

If you’re after a sweet finish, a few slices of grilled pineapple work wonders.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Hearty Twist?

If this dense bean salad lit up your plate, here are a few more ways to love salads with serious substance:

Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad for a nostalgic classic with a creamy tang.
Zesty Taco Pasta Salad that eats like a full meal.
Old-Fashioned Pea Salad for creamy crunch and vintage vibes.
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens to keep that bean magic going.
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli if you want more dinner-worthy sides.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you always have a reliable steak dinner up your sleeve.

Let me know in the comments if you swapped in pinto beans or tried it with lamb. Did your chimichurri lean more parsley or cilantro? I love hearing how you make it your own.

Explore more flavor-forward dinners and craveable salads on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Steak chimichurri with dense bean salad is the kind of dish that fills your table with color and your belly with satisfaction. It’s unfussy, packed with flavor, and ideal for when you want to impress without stress. Let the chimichurri shine, make the beans sing, and dinner’s handled.