Homemade Chimichurri Sauce: A Flavorful Classic
Chimichurri sauce is a vibrant and zesty condiment that originates from Argentina. Known for its fresh taste and versatility, this sauce is a delicious accompaniment to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even as a marinade. With its aromatic blend of herbs, garlic, and vinegar, homemade chimichurri sauce brings a burst of flavor to any dish. Making it from scratch is incredibly simple and truly satisfying.
Why Make This Homemade Chimichurri Sauce
There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of homemade chimichurri sauce. First and foremost, it is fresher and more flavorful than store-bought versions. By using vibrant, fresh ingredients, you’ll get a bright and aromatic sauce that elevates any meal. Plus, making your own chimichurri gives you complete control over the flavors. You can adjust the heat level, acidity, and even customize it to fit your taste preferences. It’s an easy way to impress friends and family at your next barbecue or casual dinner gathering!
How to Make Homemade Chimichurri Sauce
Creating homemade chimichurri sauce is straightforward and can be completed in just a few simple steps. This recipe highlights fresh parsley and garlic, imparting an unforgettable flavor. You’ll also love how quickly it comes together, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
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Wash and thoroughly dry the parsley. Chop it finely or pulse in a food processor, being careful not to puree.
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Mince the garlic finely or use a garlic press for better consistency.
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In a medium bowl, combine parsley, garlic, red chili flakes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Stir in the red wine vinegar and let sit for 1–2 minutes to let the acidity mellow the garlic.
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Slowly drizzle in olive oil while stirring to create a uniform sauce.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Let the chimichurri sit for 15–30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
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Store in an airtight container if not using immediately.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (1 tablespoon):
- Calories: 80
- Total Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugars: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
How to Serve Homemade Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri is incredibly versatile. Drizzle it over grilled steak, chicken, or pork for a pop of flavor. It also pairs fabulously with roasted vegetables or as a dipping sauce for crusty bread. For a lighter option, toss it with grilled shrimp or use it as a salad dressing. The possibilities are endless, making this sauce a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire!
How to Store Homemade Chimichurri Sauce
Store your homemade chimichurri in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about a week. The flavors will deepen and improve as it sits! If you’re not using it all at once, consider freezing it in small portions. Ice cube trays work well for this purpose, allowing you to freeze single servings.
Expert Tips for Perfect Homemade Chimichurri Sauce
- Freshness is key! Use the freshest parsley you can find for the best flavor.
- If you want a milder version, reduce the amount of red chili flakes.
- Experiment with other herbs like cilantro or basil for a different twist.
- For a creamier texture, blend the sauce a bit longer in a food processor, but avoid over-pureeing.
Delicious Variations
- Cilantro Chimichurri: Replace half or all of the parsley with fresh cilantro for a unique taste.
- Mint Chimichurri: Add fresh mint leaves for a refreshing twist, perfect for lamb or grilled vegetables.
- Avocado Chimichurri: Blend in a ripe avocado for a creamy version that’s perfect as a dip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chimichurri sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can make chimichurri ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will meld beautifully.
How do I adjust the heat level?
To adjust the heat, simply reduce the amount of red chili flakes or leave them out entirely if you prefer a milder sauce.
What can I use instead of red wine vinegar?
You can substitute red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Homemade chimichurri sauce is an easy, quick recipe that packs a punch of flavor. The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and vinegar creates an unforgettable taste that enhances any dish. Try making your own chimichurri at home, and you’ll never reach for the store-bought version again! Enjoy experimenting with this versatile condiment, and don’t hesitate to share your delicious creations with family and friends. Happy cooking!
Print
Homemade Chimichurri Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 tablespoons 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A vibrant and zesty condiment from Argentina, perfect for grilled meats and roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Wash and thoroughly dry the parsley. Chop it finely or pulse in a food processor, being careful not to puree.
- Mince the garlic finely or use a garlic press for better consistency.
- In a medium bowl, combine parsley, garlic, red chili flakes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the red wine vinegar and let sit for 1–2 minutes to let the acidity mellow the garlic.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while stirring to create a uniform sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Let the chimichurri sit for 15–30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Store in an airtight container if not using immediately.
Notes
Use the freshest parsley for the best flavor. Adjust red chili flakes for desired heat level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Argentinian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: chimichurri, sauce, condiment, Argentine, fresh herbs
