Chimichurri Beef Skewers with Aioli

Name: Chimichurri Beef Skewers with Aioli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup red wine vinegar; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Skewers (soaked in water if wooden); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

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I absolutely adore grilling, especially when it involves vibrant flavors like those in these Chimichurri Beef Skewers with Aioli. The combination of tender beef marinated in a zesty chimichurri sauce paired with a rich, creamy aioli makes for an irresistible meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether for a summer barbecue or a family dinner, these skewers delight the senses and leave everyone craving more. Trust me, the secret lies in the marinade, which infuses the beef with a burst of flavor while keeping it juicy and tender.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:54:28.394Z

In my quest to make the perfect grilled skewers, I stumbled upon the magic of chimichurri—a fresh herb sauce that completely transforms the beef. The bold flavors really cut through the heaviness of the meat, making each bite exciting. After trying different versions, I found that letting the beef marinate for at least an hour brings the best results, intensifying the taste and juiciness of each skewer.

For the aioli, I experimented with various ratios of garlic and lemon, and I discovered that a touch of smoked paprika adds a delightful depth of flavor that complements the chimichurri perfectly. Dipping the skewers into this rich sauce is an experience in itself, and I love serving them at gatherings where everyone can enjoy the vibrancy of the dish together.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A vibrant herb sauce that adds freshness to the juicy beef
Creamy aioli that perfectly balances the flavors
Easy to prepare and perfect for outdoor grilling
Great for a crowd or an intimate dinner fit for sharing

      

Perfecting Your Marinade

The marinade is the star of this recipe, and using fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro is key to achieving that vibrant chimichurri flavor. I recommend finely chopping the herbs rather than using a food processor, as this allows for a better texture and visual appeal in the final dish. After mixing in the garlic and red pepper flakes, let the marinade sit for about 10-15 minutes before adding the beef. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.

Beef sirloin is ideal for this recipe due to its balance of tenderness and flavor, but you can easily substitute with flank or ribeye steak if desired. Just ensure that you cut the meat into uniform 1-inch cubes so they cook evenly on the grill. For a slightly smoky element, consider marinating overnight instead of just an hour, but be careful not to exceed 12 hours, as the acidity of the vinegar can start to break down the meat too much.

Grilling Technique Tips

When it comes to grilling the skewers, preheating your grill to medium-high heat is crucial for achieving that beautiful char on the beef. If you don't have a grill, a cast-iron skillet can work well too. Look for grill marks and a bit of caramelization, which indicates that the beef is developing flavor. For even more depth, consider adding a few wood chips to your grill, such as hickory or mesquite, for a smoky flavor that complements the chimichurri sauce.

It's essential to keep a close eye on the cooking time, as beef cubes can go from perfectly medium-rare to overcooked in just a minute or two. A good visual cue is to look for the meat to be slightly firm yet still slightly springy when pressed. If you prefer to use a meat thermometer, aim for about 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling; this allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite.

Ingredients

To make these delicious skewers, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chimichurri Beef Skewers

1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

For the Aioli

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create mouth-watering Chimichurri Beef Skewers:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and add the beef cubes, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Make the Aioli

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust the seasoning to taste and set aside.

Skewer the Beef

After marinating, thread the beef cubes onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the beef is cooked to your desired doneness.

Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and serve hot with the aioli on the side. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Now that your skewers are ready, it's time to relish the deliciousness!

Pro Tips

To enhance flavor, you can let the beef marinate overnight in the fridge. Additionally, feel free to add vegetables to the skewers, such as bell peppers or onions, for some extra color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Chimichurri Beef Skewers pair beautifully with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the beef and aioli. Consider tossing some bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes on the grill alongside for a colorful and healthy addition. For a heartier meal, serve them with a side of cilantro-lime rice or warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious aioli.

If you're hosting a barbecue and want to impress your guests, consider making a platter with additional sauces. Alongside the aioli, a tangy yogurt sauce with lemon and dill or even a spicy salsa can elevate the experience further. This way, guests can mix and match flavors, creating their unique combinations.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store the beef skewers and aioli in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep for about 3-4 days. Reheat the beef skewers on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat to retain some of their original juiciness, but be cautious not to overcook them again.

For meal prep or if you're entertaining, you can marinate the beef skewers a day in advance. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking. If you want to make aioli ahead, it can also stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week, offering a creamy condiment ready for any dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, chicken works well! Just ensure you adjust the cooking time, as chicken will cook faster than beef.

→ What can I serve with these skewers?

These skewers pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or rice.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The chimichurri sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavors will develop even more.