Chimichurri Sauce

Chimichurri sauce, a vibrant and flavorful condiment hailing from Argentina, has become a beloved staple in many kitchens around the world. With its zesty blend of fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil, chimichurri adds a burst of flavor to grilled meats, vegetables, and more. Here I will delve into the origins of chimichurri sauce, explore different variations of the recipe, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to make your own delicious batch at home. Get ready to elevate your culinary creations with this versatile and mouthwatering sauce!

What is Chimichurri?

If you haven’t tried chimichurri yet, let me give you the lowdown. Chimichurri is a delicious fresh sauce from Argentina and Uruguay that is not prepared at all. It contains finely chopped parsley (or cilantro), minced garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar.

This fantastic green sauce is really fresh, herbaceous, acidic, garlicky, and just delicious. Add some crushed red pepper flakes or red chili peppers for some spiciness.

Chichirri’s heavily chopped herbs give it a chunky consistency akin to thick herb oil or green salsa. It is commonly used as a marinade or sauce for fish, lamb, pig, chicken, and steak. Tacos, sandwiches, eggs, grilled or roasted veggies, and much more go well with it!

Traditional Ingredients of Chimichurri

Chimichurri, a flavorful and versatile sauce that originated in Argentina, typically consists of traditional ingredients.

Flat-Leaf Parsley 1/2 Cup

Flat-leaf parsley is a key traditional ingredient in chimichurri, a flavorful and versatile sauce hailing from Argentina. Its vibrant green color and fresh, herbaceous flavor are essential components that give chimichurri its signature taste.

Cilantro 1/2 Cup

The fresh, bright taste of cilantro can add a unique twist to the sauce, providing a hint of citrusy zest that complements the tangy vinegar and garlic base.

Oregano Leaves 2 Tablespoons

Oregano adds a distinctive flavor and aromatic quality to the sauce, giving it a herbaceous and slightly peppery taste.

Small Garlic Cloves  3

The sharpness of fresh garlic balances the tangy acidity of vinegar and the herbaceous notes of parsley, another essential ingredient in chimichurri.

Shallot  1

Shallots, with their mild onion flavor, play a key role in enhancing the overall taste profile of chimichurri.

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil  1/3 Cup

One of the key components is extra-virgin olive oil, which not only adds richness but also helps bind the other ingredients together.

Red Wine Vinegar 2 Tablespoons

Red wine vinegar is a key component that lends a tangy and acidic kick to this versatile condiment. Its sharpness cuts through the richness of meats and adds a distinctive depth of flavor to any dish it accompanies.

Lime Juice 1 Tablespoon

lime juice adds a refreshing citrusy kick to the sauce.

Kosher Salt 1/2 Teaspoon

This coarse salt helps to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients, such as fresh parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil, creating a harmonious blend of savory and tangy notes.

Black Pepper 1/4 Teaspoon

The addition of black pepper not only enhances the overall taste but also provides a subtle heat that complements the freshness of the herbs and vinegar in chimichurri.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes, Pinch

These fiery flakes add a bold kick to the sauce and enhance its overall flavor profile.

How to Make Chimichurri Sauce: Step-by-Step

Make some chimichurri in a food processor or simply chop everything up with a sharp knife. I believe both strategies are fairly reliable. When using a food processor, keep an eye on it to avoid over-blending the components.

• Place the parsley, cilantro (if using), oregano, garlic, and shallot in a food processor and pulse a few times until finely chopped. Don’t worry about getting the mixture too smooth; it should still have a lumpy texture. You definitely do not want a sauce that is overly silky.

• To chop everything up small, if you don’t have a food processor, use a sharp knife.
• Pour the mix into a small bowl. Simply stir in the olive oil, vinegar, lime juice, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix until everything is nicely mixed.
• Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
• Simply chill the sauce at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. It will allow the flavors to combine and really pop. It can relax for up to two hours.

Different Types of Chimichurri: Green vs. Red

When it comes to chimichurri, there are two main types: green and red. Green chimichurri is the traditional version, made with fresh parsley, garlic, oregano, vinegar, and olive oil. It has a bright and herby flavor that pairs well with grilled meats. 

On the other hand, red chimichurri includes the same base ingredients but adds red bell peppers or tomatoes for a sweeter and slightly smokier taste. Both variations can add a burst of flavor to your dishes and are versatile condiments that can enhance a wide range of foods. Whether you prefer the classic freshness of green chimichurri or the added depth of flavor in red chimichurri, these condiments are sure to elevate your culinary creations.

Popular Uses for Chimichurri

There are so many options, which is why I enjoy chimichurri. There are numerous recipes and cuisines you can prepare and enjoy! Check out some of our favorite recipes for using this fantastic sauce.

Meat 

 great for marinating or saucing up steak, chicken, fish, pork, shrimp, or lamb.

Veggies 

 spice up your go-to grilled, roasted, steamed, or even raw ones!

Salads 

why not use it as a dressing? It’s awesome with taco salad, steak salad, cauliflower salad, and a bunch of other stuff!

Tacos

chimichurri and tacos create an exquisite pairing that is simply divine. We delight in enhancing steak tacos, veggie tacos, shrimp tacos. truly any tacos with a sumptuous drizzle on top! It is equally delightful on other exquisite Mexican dishes such as quesadillas, burritos, nachos, taquitos, and more.

Sandwiches & Wraps 

give your go-to sandwich or wrap a fun twist with some chimichurri!

French Fries 

French fries are awesome with dipping sauce, whether it’s regular fries, sweet potato fries, or potato wedges.

Egg

Elevate your scrambled eggs, fried eggs, sunny-side-up eggs, omelette, frittata, or egg casserole with this exquisite sauce.

Bread

we delight in savoring garlic bread, pita bread, naan bread, or a classic crusty loaf, elegantly dipped in a touch of chimichurri.

How to Store and Preserve Chimichurri

Chimichurri is most flavorful on the day it is made, preferably after it has rested for at least 30 minutes. However, any leftover chimichurri sauce can be refrigerated and stored for up to 7 days. Before serving, whisk the sauce and let it come to room temperature.

Chimichurri sauce can be frozen for up to three months. I prefer to pour the sauce into an ice cube tray for more manageable servings. First, freeze the cubes before transferring them to an appropriate freezer container or freezer bag for storage. Larger quantities can be preserved by storing them in a freezer container or bag. To thaw the frozen sauce, place it in the refrigerator rather than heating it in the microwave.

Tips for the Best Chimichurri Sauce Recipe

• Before you start, finely chop your parsley. I usually get a large bunch, wash it, cut it up finely, then measure it out. If you run out, simply grab some extra and cut it up again until you have enough.
• For a strong garlic kick, use four cloves. If you prefer it milder, start with two cloves. Combine all of the ingredients and chill for a few minutes. Next, let’s conduct a taste test. If you want more, just add some additional.
• You can entirely customize chimichurri to meet your style. Add a little more salt and pepper, and season the chili to your desire. You have the authority to decide. This is my father’s take, and we really like it. I hope you enjoy it too!
• You can omit the fresh red chili if you choose. We include a whole huge chili, but you can use half or skip it entirely if you like. Feel free to substitute 1-2 teaspoons of dried red chili flakes.
• Red wine vinegar is the preferred vinegar for chimichurri. Try lemon juice instead. We aren’t big lovers of balsamic or white vinegar.

Chimichurri Sauce Variations Around the World

Chimichurri sauce is a versatile condiment that has variations around the world. Originating in Argentina and Uruguay, traditional chimichurri typically consists of parsley, garlic, vinegar, oil, and red pepper flakes. However, different regions have put their own spin on this beloved sauce. In Colombia, chimichurri includes tomatoes and onions for a unique twist, while in Nicaragua, it may be made with mint and lime juice. In Mexico, cilantro is often added to the mix for a fresh and zesty flavor. These variations showcase the adaptability of chimichurri sauce and how it can be customized to suit different tastes and cuisines worldwide.

FAQ

Why is My Chimichurri Bitter?

If you started with bitter parsley, your chimichurri sauce may taste bitter. Don’t forget to acquire some fresh Italian parsley instead of the curly stuff. Before you get started, give the parsley a quick taste to ensure it isn’t bitter. And just don’t overmix the chimichurri sauce, okay? If you blend the olive oil too much, the polyphenols will separate from the fatty acids, causing it to taste bitter.

Is Chimichurri Sauce Keto or Paleo-Friendly?

Chimichurri sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can be enjoyed on a variety of dishes. In terms of its compatibility with the keto and paleo diets, chimichurri sauce is generally considered to be both keto and paleo-friendly.

Can You Freeze Chimichurri?

Yes, you can freeze chimichurri for later use. To do so, place the chimichurri in an airtight container or ice cube trays and store it in the freezer. Freezing may cause some slight changes in texture and color due to the herbs being frozen, but the flavor should remain intact.

Final Words

Elevate your culinary experience with the vibrant flavors of chimichurri sauce. This zesty and versatile condiment can add a burst of freshness to your dishes, whether you’re grilling meats or drizzling it over roasted vegetables. 

With its simple yet delicious blend of herbs and spices, chimichurri sauce is sure to impress your taste buds and elevate any meal to a whole new level. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your cooking repertoire with this easy-to-make sauce that packs a punch of flavor in every bite!