Char-Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Three-Herb Chimichurri

Preparation

1. For spice rub:

   Step 1

   Combine all ingredients in small bowl.

   Step 2

   Do ahead: Can be made 2 days ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.

2. For chimichurri sauce:

   Step 3

   Combine first 8 ingredients in blender; blend until almost smooth. Add 1/4 of parsley, 1/4 of cilantro, and 1/4 of mint; blend until incorporated. Add remaining herbs in 3 more additions, pureeing until almost smooth after each addition.

   Step 4

   Do ahead: Can be made 3 hours ahead. Cover; chill.

3. For beef tenderloin:

   Step 5

   Let beef stand at room temperature 1 hour.

   Step 6

   Prepare barbecue (high heat). Pat beef dry with paper towels; brush with oil. Sprinkle all over with spice rub, using all of mixture (coating will be thick). Place beef on grill; sear 2 minutes on each side. Reduce heat to medium-high. Grill uncovered until instant-read thermometer inserted into thickest part of beef registers 130°F for medium-rare, moving beef to cooler part of grill as needed to prevent burning, and turning occasionally, about 40 minutes. Transfer to platter; cover loosely with foil and let rest 15 minutes. Thinly slice beef crosswise. Serve with chimichurri sauce.

4. Step 7

   *Available at specialty foods stores and from tienda.com.