I make Chimichurri Sauce when I want something fresh, vibrant, and packed with bold flavor. This herb-forward sauce is bright, garlicky, and tangy, and it instantly brings grilled meats, vegetables, or bread to life.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s quick, fresh, and incredibly versatile. I can make it in minutes with simple ingredients, and it always adds a burst of flavor without feeling heavy. I also like how it tastes even better after sitting for a bit, as the flavors meld together.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
fresh parsley, finely chopped
fresh cilantro, optional
garlic, minced
red wine vinegar
olive oil
red pepper flakes
salt
black pepper
dried oregano
Directions
I start by finely chopping the parsley and cilantro and adding them to a bowl. I stir in the minced garlic, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and oregano.
I slowly drizzle in the olive oil while stirring until everything is well combined and slightly loose in texture. I taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more vinegar for tang or olive oil for richness.
I let the chimichurri rest for at least 10 minutes before serving so the flavors can fully develop.
Servings and Timing
I usually get about 1 cup of chimichurri sauce from this recipe.
Prep time: about 10 minutes
Resting time: about 10 minutes
Total time: about 20 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness. When I want more heat, I increase the red pepper flakes. I also like making a greener version by using all parsley or a bolder one by adding extra garlic.
Storage/Reheating
I store chimichurri sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before using, I let it come to room temperature and give it a good stir. I don’t reheat chimichurri, since it’s best served fresh.
FAQs
Can I make chimichurri ahead of time?
I often make it a day ahead because the flavor improves as it sits.
Can I use a food processor?
I use a food processor when I want it faster, but I prefer hand-chopping for better texture.
Is chimichurri spicy?
I find it mildly spicy, and I adjust the red pepper flakes to taste.
What does chimichurri go well with?
I use it on grilled steak, chicken, fish, vegetables, or even as a bread dip.
Can I freeze chimichurri sauce?
I freeze it in small portions, but I prefer it fresh for the best flavor.
Conclusion
I keep Chimichurri Sauce as a go-to condiment because it’s fresh, bold, and incredibly easy to make. With bright herbs, garlic, and vinegar, this recipe gives me a simple sauce that instantly elevates almost any dish.
PrintChimichurri Sauce
A fresh, vibrant chimichurri sauce made with herbs, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil that adds bold, tangy flavor to grilled meats, vegetables, or bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup
- Category: Sauce
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Argentinian
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Add the chopped parsley and cilantro to a bowl.
- Stir in the minced garlic, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while stirring until the sauce is well combined and slightly loose in texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Let the chimichurri rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Hand-chopping gives the best texture.
- Adjust vinegar and oil to control tanginess and richness.
- Letting the sauce rest improves flavor.
- Best served at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 0.5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
