The 2016 Olympic Games are winding down in Rio, but that doesn't mean you can't eat like a Brazilian! Tres and I visited Rio a few years ago, and we still to this day call it the best place we have ever traveled. We also brought home delicious new recipes, and Chimichurri sauce has become a staple in our kitchen. It's most delicious over flank steak, and I like to serve mine with cauliflower purée. It's the perfect "meat and potatoes dish" without all the carbs! And if you're looking for the perfect vacation spot, I cannot recommend Rio enough times!
Grocery list
Chimichurri Sauce:
1/2 cup parsley - chopped
1/2 cup cilantro - chopped
4 garlic cloves - chopped
1 tsp dried oregano
2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp red pepper flake
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 lemon - juiced
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Cauliflower Purée:
1 small cauliflower head - cut into florets and steamed
1 garlic clove - chopped
1/4 cup Parmesan
2 tbsp fat free cream cheese
1 1/2 tbsp butter
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp pepper
Flank Steak:
1 (2 to 2 1/2 lb) flank steak
Olive oil
Kosher salt
Fresh cracked pepper
Directions
1. In a food processor, add the parsley, cilantro, garlic, oregano, cumin, red pepper flake, salt, lemon, and red wine vinegar. Blend until it all comes together, then stream in the olive oil until smooth. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.
2. In a blender or food processor, add the steamed cauliflower, garlic, Parmesan, cream cheese, butter, salt, and pepper. Blend on high until smooth and silky.
3. Heat a cast iron or grill pan to medium high heat. Brush flank steak on both sides with olive oil. Sprinkle liberally on both sides with salt and pepper. Pan sear or grill the steak for about 4 minutes on each side for medium rare. Cover in foil and set aside for at least 8 minutes to rest. Slice into thin strips across the grain.
4. Build plates by spreading a large spoonful of cauliflower the bottom of each plate. Top with the flank steak strips, then finish with a heaping spoonful of Chimichurri sauce.
CHEERS TO HAPPY EATING!!!