Are you looking for a fresh, flavorful sauce to elevate your grilled meats or veggies? A chimichurri recipe might just be what you need! This zesty, herby sauce hails from Argentina and is famous for its bold flavors and versatility. Whether you’re grilling steaks, chicken, or even vegetables, chimichurri adds an irresistible kick to your meals. In this post, we’ll guide you through an easy-to-follow recipe, along with tips to make it your own!
Why You’ll Love This Chimichurri Recipe
- Simple & Quick to Make: Chimichurri is one of those recipes that come together in no time. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a vibrant, homemade sauce ready to go.
- Healthy and Flavorful: It’s packed with fresh herbs, olive oil, and vinegar, making it a great option for those who want to add flavor without extra calories.
- Perfect for Grilled Dishes: It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, vegetables, and even seafood. Plus, it can be used as a marinade or a topping!
- Customizable: You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your taste. Want it spicier? Add more chili flakes! Prefer a milder version? Leave out the heat. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients Needed
This chimichurri recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that are easy to find:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried oregano)
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient alternatives:
- For a dairy-free version, this recipe is naturally dairy-free.
- You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a citrus twist.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, this recipe is already gluten-free!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the herbs: Finely chop the parsley and oregano. If you’re using dried oregano, no need to chop, just measure out 2 teaspoons.
- Mince the garlic: Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves. The more finely you chop the garlic, the more flavor it will release.
- Combine the ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the parsley, oregano, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the wet ingredients: Pour in the red wine vinegar, olive oil, and lemon juice. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Taste and adjust if needed.
- Let it sit: For the best flavor, let the chimichurri sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Make it Spicier: For a more intense heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a fresh chopped chili pepper.
- Sweeten it Up: Add a touch of honey or sugar to balance out the acidity for a slightly sweeter version.
- Try a Tangier Version: Swap the red wine vinegar for white vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a sharper taste.
- Herb Variations: While parsley and oregano are traditional, you can also experiment with cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Add a Protein Boost: Consider adding a tablespoon of nutritional yeast to give the sauce a cheesy flavor for a plant-based alternative.
How to Store & Reheat
- Storage: Store leftover chimichurri in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
- Freezing: Chimichurri can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply store it in a freezer-safe container or ice cube trays for easy portioning.
- Reheating: Since chimichurri is served cold, there’s no need to reheat it. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the oil may separate.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of flavorful sauces like chimichurri, you’ll love these recipes that bring just as much zest to your meals! Try our Alfredo Sauce Recipe for a creamy, rich sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more delicate, our Hollandaise Sauce offers a buttery, smooth flavor that’s ideal for eggs or vegetables. And for a tangy, umami-rich twist, our Ponzu Sauce adds a delicious citrusy kick to your favorite dishes. Each of these recipes is easy to make and sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can chimichurri be used as a marinade? Yes! Chimichurri works wonderfully as a marinade for meats, especially beef, chicken, and lamb. Simply coat your protein with the sauce and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
2. How long does chimichurri last? Chimichurri will last for about 1 week in the fridge. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
3. Is chimichurri vegan? Yes, this chimichurri recipe is entirely plant-based, making it a great option for vegan diets.
4. Can I make chimichurri in advance? Definitely! In fact, chimichurri often tastes even better after sitting for a day or two, allowing the flavors to meld.
Now that you know how to make this easy, delicious chimichurri recipe, it’s time to give it a try! Whether you’re grilling meat, tossing it with veggies, or just enjoying it as a dip, this tangy, herby sauce is sure to impress. Give it a go and let us know what you think in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your chimichurri creations with your friends and family – they’ll love it!
Ready to add some zing to your next meal? Grab your ingredients, and start mixing up this perfect chimichurri today!
Chimichurri Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano finely chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried oregano)
- 3 –4 garlic cloves minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for spice
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional variations:
- For a dairy-free version this recipe is naturally dairy-free.
- Substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a citrus twist.
- If you want a spicier sauce increase the red pepper flakes.
Instructions
- Prepare the herbs: Finely chop the fresh parsley and oregano (or use dried oregano).
- Mince the garlic: Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves. A garlic press works best for releasing maximum flavor.
- Combine the ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the parsley, oregano, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the wet ingredients: Pour in the red wine vinegar, olive oil, and lemon juice. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Let it sit: Let the chimichurri sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend together. The longer it sits, the more intense the flavor will be.