Name: Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Latin-inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb skirt or flank steak; 2 cans white beans, drained; 1 bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 6 tbsp olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced; 1 shallot, thinly sliced; 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste

If you’re craving something bold, juicy, and vibrant in one satisfying meal, this Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad delivers in every bite. Picture perfectly seared steak, sliced and dripping with herby chimichurri, resting atop a hearty, garlicky bean salad that’s filling enough to stand as a meal on its own. It’s a recipe built for warm evenings, late lunches, and impressive weeknight dinners.

What makes this dish shine is its contrast. You get the smoky richness of grilled or pan-seared steak, cooled down by a bright green sauce that’s packed with fresh parsley, garlic, and a splash of vinegar. Underneath, the bean salad is dense, creamy, and tossed with a lemony dressing that soaks in flavor the longer it sits.

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

This is not your average meat-and-side dish situation. Everything about this recipe is built to work together. The beans aren’t just an afterthought; they hold their own with shallots, lemon, and olive oil. The steak gets elevated by the chimichurri, which also doubles as a dressing for the beans if you’re into extra punch.

You can prep it ahead of time, eat it warm or chilled, and it feels equally appropriate for a dinner party or solo lunch. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and packed with protein and fiber.

What Kind of Steak Should I Use?

Skirt steak is the top choice here because of its rich marbling and thin cut, which makes it ideal for quick, high-heat cooking. Flank steak also works beautifully if sliced thin against the grain. If you want something even more tender, sirloin or New York strip would take this meal into luxury territory.

Whatever cut you choose, let it rest after cooking so the juices don’t run out when you slice it. And don’t skip the seasoning step. A simple salt and pepper rub brings out the steak’s natural flavor.

Ingredients for the Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad

The components of this recipe are simple but thoughtfully chosen. The goal is balance: richness, freshness, acidity, and depth.

Steak
Juicy steak, preferably skirt or flank, is the star. It brings richness and satisfying protein to the meal.

Canned white beans
These are the base of the salad. Their creamy texture soaks up dressing well and provides heft.

Fresh parsley
A whole bunch brings the herbaceous punch needed for the chimichurri.

Garlic
Used generously in both the sauce and the beans. It adds warmth and zing.

Red wine vinegar
Essential for brightening the chimichurri and cutting through the richness of the steak.

Olive oil
Used throughout the recipe to carry flavors and provide a silky finish.

Lemon juice
Freshly squeezed lemon ties together the bean salad with its acidity.

Shallots
Mild but flavorful, they soften into the beans and add a savory note.

Red pepper flakes
Optional but highly recommended for a little heat in the chimichurri.

How To Make the Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad

Step 1: Make the Chimichurri

Finely chop the parsley and garlic and mix in a bowl with red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Add salt and pepper to taste. Let the flavors meld while you cook the steak.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

Season the steak generously with salt and pepper. Heat a cast iron pan or grill to high and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side depending on thickness. Let rest for 5–10 minutes, then slice thin against the grain.

Step 3: Prepare the Bean Salad

In a bowl, combine drained white beans, thinly sliced shallots, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let sit for at least 10 minutes so the beans absorb all the flavor.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Layer the bean salad on a platter or plate. Top with sliced steak and spoon chimichurri generously over the top. Serve with extra chimichurri on the side.

How to Serve and Store This Dish

This recipe easily serves 3 to 4 people as a main course. It works well as a plated meal or served family-style on a big dish for everyone to dig into. You can eat it warm right after cooking or let it chill slightly for a more picnic-style experience.

Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge. If storing, keep the chimichurri separate and spoon it on just before eating to keep everything vibrant and fresh.

What to Serve With Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad?

Roasted Asparagus

Crispy spears with a touch of lemon and sea salt pair perfectly with steak.

Crusty Sourdough Bread

Great for soaking up extra chimichurri and bean dressing.

Charred Corn on the Cob

Adds a little sweetness and smokiness to the meal.

Creamy Polenta

For an ultra-comforting side that complements the meatiness of the steak.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Fresh and light with a nice crunch.

Grilled Halloumi

Salty and crispy, a fantastic contrast to the steak.

Simple Green Salad

A mix of arugula and romaine with a vinaigrette keeps things crisp and cool.

Crispy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls

If you’re looking to spice things up and add a party vibe to the meal, this side fits right in【5†source】.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Savory Twist?

If you’re into big flavors and balanced plates like this one, check out these other vibrant options:

• Classic Caprese Salad Recipe when you want simplicity and freshness.
• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta as a creamy counterpart to the steak.
• Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a protein-packed herb-forward meal.
• Zucchini Lasagna Recipe if you’re seeking something low-carb and comforting.
• Crispy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls for crunchy, spicy fun on the side.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

I always love hearing what you tweak or change. Did you add a different herb to the chimichurri? Maybe toss in grilled veggies or even chickpeas? Let me know what made it onto your plate.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and more steak combos on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for flavor-packed inspiration.

Conclusion

Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad is more than a quick dinner. It’s a celebration of textures and flavors that feels both rustic and refined. From the zesty herb sauce to the creamy beans and juicy steak, this dish checks every box. Whether you’re entertaining guests or feeding your weeknight self, it’s a no-fuss stunner that delivers every time.