Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce
- Chop the Herbs:
- Finely chop the fresh parsley and cilantro. Alternatively, you can use a food processor for a finer texture.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, cilantro, and minced garlic.
- Add the red wine vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Surf & Turf Skewers
- Marinate the Meat and Shrimp:
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the cubed steak and shrimp to the bowl, tossing to coat evenly with the marinade. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Cut the bell peppers into 1-inch pieces and the red onion into similar-sized chunks. Leave the cherry tomatoes whole.
- Assemble the Skewers:
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the steak, shrimp, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers, alternating between ingredients for a colorful and balanced skewer.
Step 3: Grill the Skewers
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a stovetop grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat.
- Grill the Skewers:
- Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side for the shrimp and 3-4 minutes per side for the steak, or until the meat is cooked to your desired doneness and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
- Rest the Skewers:
- Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate the Skewers:
- Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with some of the chimichurri sauce.
- Serve the Sauce on the Side:
- Serve the remaining chimichurri sauce on the side for additional dipping.
Tips for Success
- Quality Ingredients: Use fresh herbs for the chimichurri sauce to ensure a vibrant, flavorful result.
- Even Cooking: Cut the steak and vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking on the grill.
- Resting Time: Allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes after grilling to let the juices redistribute, resulting in more flavorful meat.
Variations
- Different Proteins: Swap the sirloin steak with chicken or pork, and use scallops instead of shrimp for a different surf and turf combination.
- Vegetarian Option: Make a vegetarian version using tofu or paneer, along with an assortment of vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- Wine Pairing: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine like Pinot Noir to complement the flavors of the dish.
Conclusion
Skewers Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri is a delightful dish that brings together the best of land and sea with a burst of herbaceous freshness from the chimichurri sauce. This recipe is perfect for grilling season and will surely impress your family and friends. Follow this detailed guide to create a visually stunning and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion.