Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Grilled Steak: Tips, Tricks, and The Best Sides

Grilling the perfect steak is a skill that every home cook should master. From choosing the right cut of meat to getting the perfect sear, there are several tips and tricks to ensure that your steak turns out juicy and flavorful every time. In addition, the right side dish can elevate your steak dinner to a whole new level. Here's the ultimate guide to perfectly grilled steak, including tips, tricks, and the best sides to serve alongside it.

Choosing the Right Cut

When it comes to grilling steak, the cut of meat you choose will make a big difference in the final result. For a tender and juicy steak, consider cuts like ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon. These cuts have a good amount of marbling, which helps keep the meat moist and flavorful as it cooks.

Prepping the Steak

Before grilling, make sure to bring your steak to room temperature. This will help it cook more evenly. Season your steak generously with salt and pepper, and consider adding other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or a steak rub for extra flavor.

Grilling Tips

- Preheat your grill to high heat before adding the steak. This will help you get a good sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
- For a rare steak, grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side. For a medium-rare steak, aim for 4-5 minutes on each side. For a well-done steak, grill for 6-7 minutes on each side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. A rare steak will have an internal temperature of 125°F, medium-rare will be 135°F, medium will be 145°F, and well-done will be 160°F.

Serving Sides

The best steak dinners are complemented by delicious sides. Here are some classic sides that pair well with grilled steak:
- Grilled Asparagus: drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill until tender.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: creamy and flavorful, they're the perfect comfort food to serve alongside a juicy steak.
- Classic Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and savory Parmesan cheese provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak.

Recipe: Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

For a flavorful twist on grilled steak, try making a homemade chimichurri sauce. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the parsley, cilantro, garlic, and red wine vinegar.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while whisking constantly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Let the sauce sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Grill your steak to your desired level of doneness and serve with a generous drizzle of chimichurri sauce on top.

With these tips, tricks, and side dish ideas, you'll be well on your way to grilling the perfect steak every time. Whether you prefer a classic side like garlic mashed potatoes or want to try something new like chimichurri sauce, the options for steak dinners are endless.