Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad

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Bold, zesty, and packed with texture, this Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad is everything you crave in a satisfying, wholesome dinner. Perfectly grilled steak slices rest atop a hearty mix of creamy beans, peppery arugula, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers—all elevated with a drizzle of homemade chimichurri bursting with fresh herbs and garlic.

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Whether you’re looking for a vibrant weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party option, this salad offers both visual wow factor and nourishing balance. With protein, fiber, and garden-fresh goodness, it’s a complete meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

What Kind of Steak Should I Use?

The beauty of this recipe is how flexible it is. Flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin work wonderfully here. Each cut grills up beautifully and slices thinly for perfect layering. Just make sure to let the meat rest before slicing to keep all the juices where they belong—inside the steak.

Ingredients for the Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad

Flank or Skirt Steak – Lean yet flavorful, this cut grills quickly and absorbs marinade well, making it ideal for salads.

Chimichurri Sauce – A vibrant mix of parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, chili flakes, and olive oil. It’s the tangy, herby backbone of this dish.

Arugula – Adds a peppery bite that balances the richness of the steak.

Cannellini Beans – These white beans bring creamy texture and a hearty base to the salad.

Cherry Tomatoes – Bursting with sweetness and color, they freshen up each bite.

Cucumbers – Crisp and refreshing, they lighten up the bean-heavy base.

Red Onion – Adds sharpness and crunch, best when slightly pickled or lightly grilled.

Feta Cheese – Crumbled over the top for a salty, tangy contrast.


How To Make the Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad

Step 1: Make the Chimichurri

In a food processor or with a sharp knife, finely chop 1 cup fresh parsley, 3 cloves garlic, 1 small red chili (or ½ tsp chili flakes), and mix with ¼ cup red wine vinegar and ½ cup olive oil. Add salt to taste and let the flavors meld while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Prep and Grill the Steak

Season your steak with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill over high heat for 3-4 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until medium-rare. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 3: Build the Salad Base

In a large bowl, toss together arugula, drained and rinsed cannellini beans, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and thin red onion slices.

Step 4: Assemble and Finish

Place the sliced steak over the salad. Spoon chimichurri sauce generously over the meat. Top with crumbled feta and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.


Serving and Storing This Salad

This dish is best served fresh while the steak is warm and juicy, and the chimichurri is bright. However, if you have leftovers, store the steak and salad separately. The salad can keep for up to 2 days in the fridge, and the steak for 3 days. Refresh with a little extra chimichurri before serving again.

What to Serve With Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad?

Garlic Bread or Focaccia

Something warm and soft to mop up the leftover chimichurri sauce.

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

The earthy sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory steak – Try this version here

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Charred corn with a brush of lime and cotija adds a Tex-Mex touch.

Parmesan Baked Potatoes

Crispy, cheesy, and indulgent – Grab the recipe here

Watermelon and Mint Salad

For a refreshing contrast on the side.


Want More Salad Ideas with Bold Flavor?

If this Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad excited your palate, here are a few more must-tries from Savor Queen:

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Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of lime juice or a handful of grilled peaches? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your ideas or questions in the comments.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.


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Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad

Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad


  • Author: Julia Walton
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Steak Chimichurri & Dense Bean Salad is a powerhouse of bold flavors, fresh vegetables, and high-protein satisfaction. Tender grilled steak layered over a medley of cannellini beans, cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and arugula, all drizzled with herbaceous chimichurri and topped with tangy feta. It’s the perfect blend of savory, zesty, and hearty—ideal for quick dinner ideas, easy lunch recipes, or healthy food ideas packed with nutrients and style. Whether you’re meal-prepping or hosting, this easy recipe delivers every time.


Ingredients

1 pound flank or skirt steak

1 cup fresh parsley

3 cloves garlic

1 small red chili or 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1/2 cup olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt

4 cups arugula

1 can cannellini beans drained and rinsed

1 cup cherry tomatoes halved

1 cup cucumber chopped

1/2 red onion thinly sliced

1/3 cup feta cheese crumbled

black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil for steak rub


Instructions

1. In a food processor or by hand, finely chop parsley, garlic, and chili. Mix with red wine vinegar, olive oil, and salt. Let sit to develop flavor.

2. Rub steak with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill on high for 3-4 minutes per side until medium-rare. Rest 10 minutes, then slice thin.

3. In a large bowl, combine arugula, beans, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion. Toss lightly.

4. Top salad with steak slices, spoon chimichurri over the top, and finish with crumbled feta and black pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

Letting the steak rest is key for juicy slices that don’t dry out the salad.

Chimichurri can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Latin American / Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salad bowl
  • Calories: 510
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 23g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: steak salad, chimichurri recipe, high protein salad, healthy dinner, easy salad meals

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