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Homemade Chimichurri Sauce: A Flavorful Twist for Your Meals

Chimichurri sauce is a vibrant and zesty condiment that hails from South America, particularly Argentina and Uruguay. This delightful mix of fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and oil serves as an ideal accompaniment to grilled meats, but its versatility extends far beyond that. You can use it to marinate meats, dress salads, or even add a punch to your sandwiches!

A small white bowl filled with chimichurri sauce. A spoon is scooping out some of the sauce from the bowl.

Putting together this delicious sauce is a breeze, as it requires only a handful of fresh ingredients. The distinct combination creates a bright and tangy flavor that beautifully complements the smokiness of grilled dishes. Beyond meats, it enhances the taste of rice, potatoes, and various sides. For a tasty snack or side dish, pair it with homemade tostones!

What Does Chimichurri Taste Like?

The origins of chimichurri sauce trace back to Argentina and Uruguay, where it was traditionally used as a condiment for grilled and roasted dishes such as steak and lamb. Its savory flavor profile features fresh, uncooked herbs, which provide an earthy essence that pairs wonderfully with meats.

This sauce offers a balanced experience, where the fresh garlic flavor collaborates with a light oiliness, making it an ideal complement to a variety of dishes. It also works harmoniously with seafood options like grilled shrimp, salmon, or white fish. Curious about more serving ideas? Keep reading!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Chimichurri

NOTE: The full list of ingredients with measurements is provided in the recipe card below.

All of the ingredients for chimichurri sauce in small bowls on a white countertop.

Creating chimichurri sauce requires just a few fresh ingredients:

What Kind of Parsley Can I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using flat-leaf parsley in chimichurri. Its robust flavor stands out and is easier to chop than curly leaf parsley. If possible, opt for organic parsley, as it often has a deeper, earthier flavor and a longer shelf life. While curly leaf parsley or a mix of both can be used if needed, flat-leaf is the way to go whenever possible.

Other Ingredients

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Using high-quality olive oil is essential for ensuring the best flavor since it serves as the sauce’s base.
Fresh Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice works wonders in this recipe.
Red Wine Vinegar: This ingredient adds a subtle tanginess that balances the herb and garlic notes beautifully.
Fresh Garlic: A must-have, fresh garlic infuses the sauce with its robust flavor and ties all the ingredients together.
Red Chili Peppers: For a kick of spice, I use Fresno peppers. Depending on your preference, you can include one or two peppers for varying levels of heat; I find that one pepper adds a delightful flavor without overpowering the dish.
Seasonings: Dried oregano, salt, and pepper complete this sauce.

Olive oil being poured into a bowl with fresh chopped parsley, minced garlic, and red pepper.

How to Make Chimichurri

Begin by washing and cleaning your fresh ingredients.
Chop the parsley, red chili peppers, and garlic, then place them all in a medium-sized bowl.
Add the red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and your chosen spices, stirring to combine.
Next, pour in the olive oil and mix thoroughly.
Finally, give everything a taste, adjust seasoning as needed, and allow the sauce to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

Why Everyone Loves This Recipe

It’s Packed with Flavor: This tangy and herbaceous sauce offers a slightly spicy zing that brightens up any dish it accompanies, thanks to the refreshing taste brought about by the garlic and vinegar.
It’s Easy to Make: Quick to prepare and with minimal ingredients needed, chimichurri can even be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it an incredibly convenient addition to your meal prep.
It’s Versatile: This sauce is not only delicious but also versatile, serving as a dip, a mix-in for butter, a dressing for salads, or a zesty addition to sandwiches. The possibilities are endless!

What Do I Eat with Chimichurri?

If you’re wondering what to pair with this delicious sauce, look no further! Chimichurri goes marvelously with chicken thighs, steak, potatoes, fish, or as a flavorful addition to sandwiches. It pairs particularly well with dishes like Roasted Garlic & Herb Chicken and Cajun Butter Lobster Tails.