What To Serve With Chimichurri Steak: 23 Best Sides

For a meal full of bold and punchy flavours that’s guaranteed to impress your guests, you can’t beat chimichurri steak. 

Hailing from Argentine cuisine, which is widely recognised for its meaty meals and robust flavours, it typically consists of a juicy grilled steak and a zesty and herbaceous sauce condiment — a blend of fresh parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil.

A meal like this deserves some carefully planned and prepared side dishes, and so if you’re wondering what to serve with chimichurri steak, you’re in the right place. 

Just want to grab a few quick ideas and head straight to the kitchen? 

No worries! 

Some of the best potato sides for chimichurri steak include French fries, roast potatoes, garlic mash, and lemony potato salad. For an alternative carbohydrate, try flatbreads or herby couscous. Add a salad side such as grilled peaches, broccoli slaw, or strawberry and goats cheese. For a surf and turf inspired feast, consider adding crispy calamari or pan fried shrimp. 

Let’s dive into some more ideas, including easy to follow recipes with step by step instructions… 

1. French fries

French fries and steak are a match made in culinary heaven!

2. Crispy, crunchy, fluffy roast potatoes

Roast potatoes, when you get them just perfect, are surely one of the most satisfying side dishes that you’ll ever come across. 

I’ve tried so many different recipes and techniques over the years in my quest for the very best roastie, and I’ve found the secret is to use duck fat. 

It creates a wonderfully crisp, thick coating that you just can’t replicate using oil. 

Once you’ve tried these, you’ll definitely want to make them again and again, so be sure to also check out the best meals to serve with roast potatoes! 

3. Garlic mashed potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a comforting, hearty choice for what to serve with chimichurri steak.

Start by peeling and cutting potatoes into even chunks.

Boil them in salted water until they are fork-tender.

While the potatoes are cooking, sauté minced garlic in butter until golden and fragrant, taking care not to burn it.

Once the potatoes are done, drain them and return them to the pot.

Add the sautéed garlic and butter, along with warm milk or cream for richness.

Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or use a hand mixer for a smoother consistency.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For an extra touch of creaminess and flavour, you can mix in some sour cream or grated Parmesan cheese.

For more potato based side dish inspiration, you can check out potato side dishes for steak. 

4. Chipas bread

If you’re searching for an authentic Argentinian side dish for chimichurri steak, you need to try chipas bread! 

They’re baked cheese buns that are just perfect for mopping up that delicious sauce, and they’re a great way to explore pairings that you might not have previously considered. 

5. Herby flatbread

I love serving sliced chimichurri steak with a herby flatbread for a sophisticated lunch.

To make your own, begin by combining flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl.

Gradually mix in water and olive oil, and knead until a smooth dough forms.

Cover the dough and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, finely chop a selection of fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, dill, or rosemary.

Once the dough has rested, divide it into equal-sized balls and roll each out into a thin circle.

Sprinkle the rolled-out dough with the chopped herbs, lightly pressing them in.

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and cook each flatbread for a couple of minutes on each side until it puffs up and gets golden-brown spots.

Brush the warm flatbreads with melted butter or additional olive oil if desired.

6. Garlic butter rice 

Garlic butter rice makes for a wonderfully flavoursome accompaniment for chimichurri steak, and it’s a lot easier than you might think to make your own at home.

Start by rinsing your rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and add finely chopped garlic, sautéing until it’s aromatic but not browned.

Stir in the drained rice and cook for a minute or two, ensuring the grains are well-coated with the garlic butter.

Add water or chicken broth at a ratio suitable for the type of rice you’re using (typically about 2 cups of liquid for 1 cup of rice).

Season with salt to taste.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, which usually takes around 15-20 minutes depending on the rice variety.

Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes.

Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

For more inspiration, take a look at rice side dishes for steak. 

7. Lemony potato salad 

For a vibrant, lighter side dish for chimichurri steak, choose lemony potato salad! 

This option is my favourite for the warmer summer months, and you can even cook your steak outside on the barbecue before enjoying your meal al fresco. 

8. Herby lemon couscous

Another light and summery option for serving with chimichurri steak is this herby lemon couscous. 

The recipe is super simple and uses mostly store cupboard ingredients that you’ll likely already have at home. 

If I’ve got leftover salad veggies like cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and celery, chop them up and stir them through for extra flavour and crunch. 

9. Quinoa with roasted veggies

To make quinoa with roasted vegetables, start by preheating your oven to around 425°F (220°C).

Choose a selection of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, onions, and carrots.

Cut them into bite-sized pieces, toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.

Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven until they are tender and caramelised, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes.

While the vegetables are roasting, rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural coating, which can be bitter.

In a saucepan, combine the quinoa with double the amount of water or broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and let it cook until all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy, about 15 minutes.

Combine the quinoa and veggies, and serve with your steak! 

10. Mediterranean orzo salad

This easy Mediterranean orzo salad is perfect for making ahead, so it’s great if you’re cooking for friends but need something that can be prepped in advance. 

Serve with your steak, and you’ve got a nutritious, well balanced meal that everyone will love! 

This side dish is also delicious with grilled chicken or salmon, so it’s always a good idea to make a little extra than you need, so you can enjoy it for lunch the next day. 

11. Onion rings

If you love classic steakhouse style side dishes, you can’t miss out on classic onion rings! 

I love to stack these high on a serving platter in the middle of the table and invite everyone to dig in and help themselves. 

12. Eggplant escabeche

Eggplant escabeche – otherwise known as pickled eggplant – is another traditional side dish that’s delicious served with grilled meats like chimichurri steak. 

It’s a must-try if you sampling authentic foods and exploring the true roots of the dishes you make. 

13. Broccoli slaw 

For a crunchy, colourful, and vibrant side dish for chimichurri steak, make a broccoli slaw.

Start by gathering the key ingredients: fresh broccoli, carrots, and red cabbage.

Shred these vegetables into fine pieces, either using a food processor with a shredding blade, a box grater, or a sharp knife for a more hand-cut texture.

For a sweeter touch, you can also add some thinly sliced apple or dried cranberries.

In a separate bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, a touch of sugar (or honey), salt, and pepper to create a creamy and tangy mixture.

For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise.

Combine the shredded vegetables and dressing in a large mixing bowl, tossing well to ensure that the slaw is evenly coated.

Let the slaw sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavours to meld together.

14. Grilled peach salad

For a more-ish mix of sweet and savoury flavours, serve your steak alongside this grilled peach salad! 

It takes just 10 minutes to prepare, and it’s a wonderfully vibrant and light option for what to serve with chimichurri steak. 

15. Strawberry and goats cheese salad

If you’ve never tried a strawberry and goats cheese salad, you’re missing out! 

The flavour combination is to die for, and this dish has a definite wow factor, making it perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.

You can serve it as a side, or even as a starter before your steak. 

Begin by washing and slicing fresh strawberries and setting them aside.

On a bed of mixed salad greens, such as baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix, arrange the strawberry slices.

Crumble soft goat cheese over the top for a creamy contrast.

For added texture and a nutty flavour, sprinkle on some toasted pecans or almonds.

For the dressing, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a touch of honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper to create a sweet and tangy vinaigrette.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

16. Spinach salad 

You can’t go wrong with a simple spinach salad, and it’s the perfect choice if you’re looking for a light accompaniment packed with plenty of goodness. 

Want more salad based ideas? Check out the best salads to serve with steak. 

17. Corn on the cob

Corn on the cob, simply boiled and slathered with salted butter, is a crunchy, colourful, and really easy to prepare side dish for what to serve with chimichurri steak.

Here’s how to make it… 

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
2. Add a pinch of sugar to the water if desired to enhance the corn’s natural sweetness.
3. Place the corn in the boiling water and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the kernels are tender.

18. Roasted garlicky tomatoes 

Tomatoes are a wonderful accompaniment to steak and add a beautiful pop of colour to your plate, and roasted garlicky tomatoes are an extra special way to enjoy them.

To make your own, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Take ripe, firm tomatoes—cherry, grape, or plum varieties work well—and slice them in half. Arrange the tomato halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.

Peel and finely mince a few cloves of garlic, or more if you’re a garlic lover.

In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper. 

Spoon a small amount of the garlic and oil mixture onto each tomato half.

Make sure the garlic is on top of the tomatoes to prevent it from burning during roasting.

Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the tomatoes for 20-25 minutes or until they are soft and slightly caramelised around the edges.

19. Grilled asparagus

A simple and sophisticated option for what to serve with chimichurri steak is grilled asparagus.

Start by preheating your grill to a medium-high heat.

While the grill is heating up, prepare the asparagus by washing the spears and trimming off the tough, woody ends.

Lay the asparagus on a tray or baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, ensuring all the spears are lightly coated.

Season with salt and pepper, and if desired, add minced garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavour.

You can also sprinkle on some Parmesan cheese or herbs like rosemary or thyme.

Once the grill is hot, place the asparagus spears perpendicular to the grates to prevent them from falling through.

Grill the asparagus for about 5-10 minutes, depending on their thickness.

Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking and to get nice grill marks on all sides.

20. Courgette fries 

If you love a side of fries but fancy a bit of a change, why not try courgette fries instead? 

Make sure you don’t miss out the parmesan! 

21. Mushrooms sautéed in white wine 

Mushrooms are a classic pairing for steak, but you can take them to the next level by sautéing them in a pan with plenty of seasoning and a generous glug of white wine. 

The wine brings brightness and an element of acidity that can really bring the whole meal to life. 

22. Crispy fried calamari 

I love surf and turf, so I love adding a portion of crispy fried calamari to any steak dinner! 

Serve it on the side if you like, or serve it as a starter with a few salad leaves and some fresh lemon wedges for squeezing. 

23. Pan fried shrimp 

Let’s round things up with another delicious seafood option for what to serve with chimichurri steak!

Again, this can be a side dish or a starter, if you prefer. 

Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp, leaving the tails on if you prefer.

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing.

In a bowl, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and any additional flavours you like, such as garlic powder, paprika, or a pinch of cayenne for heat.

You can also marinate the shrimp briefly in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for extra flavor.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Once the pan is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan to allow for even cooking.

Cook the shrimp for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, and the edges start to curl slightly. If you added garlic or shallots, be sure they don’t burn by stirring them around the pan.

Once cooked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp for added zest and serve immediately. 

Which of these options for what to serve with chimichurri steak will you be trying? 

Leave a comment and share your favourites!