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Chimichurri Sauce

Chimichurri Sauce
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Chimichurri Sauce is a vibrant, herbaceous sauce bursting with fresh parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil. Perfect for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a zesty dip, this easy-to-make sauce delivers bold, fresh flavors in minutes. Its versatility, freshness, and healthy ingredients make it a must-have addition to elevate everyday dishes with bright, tangy, and savory notes.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced finely
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (for a citrusy twist)
  • Extra red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili (for more heat)
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon (as a vinegar substitute)
  • Fresh basil and thyme (for Italian variation)
  • Soaked cashews or avocado (for a creamy vegan version)
  • Smoked paprika or chipotle powder (for smoky flavor)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Herbs and Garlic: Finely chop the fresh parsley and cilantro (if using). Mince the garlic cloves very finely to release their robust aroma, ensuring the best integration of flavors into the sauce.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the chopped herbs with dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning across the herbs.
  3. Add the Vinegar and Olive Oil: Pour in the red wine vinegar, and slowly whisk in extra virgin olive oil while mixing. This emulsifies the sauce, creating a luscious, well-blended texture that coats everything it touches.
  4. Adjust and Rest: Taste your chimichurri and adjust seasoning as needed—adding more salt, vinegar, or spice to your preference. Let the sauce rest at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes to let the flavors meld and the herbs soften in the oil and vinegar mixture.

Notes

  • Use fresh, flat-leaf parsley for tender and flavorful results; avoid curly parsley as it can be bitter.
  • Finely chop herbs and garlic by hand to preserve texture and avoid a paste-like sauce.
  • Balance acidity slowly by starting with less vinegar and adding more to taste for a perfect flavor.
  • Allow the sauce to rest before serving to enhance flavor depth and meld the ingredients together.
  • Store in a sealed jar or airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: chimichurri, chimichurri sauce, Argentine sauce, fresh parsley sauce, grilled meat sauce, herb sauce, gluten free sauce

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/chimichurri-sauce/