Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Chimichurri Sauce is a bold and vibrant condiment hailing from Argentina, known for its fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil base. Perfect as a marinade or finishing sauce for grilled meats, vegetables, or even as a dip, this green sauce comes together quickly and brings a burst of flavor to any dish.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
parsley
cilantro (optional, for a twist)
fresh garlic
red wine vinegar
olive oil
dried oregano
crushed red pepper flakes
salt
black pepper
directions
Finely chop the parsley, cilantro (if using), and garlic, or use a food processor for quicker prep.
Transfer the chopped herbs and garlic to a bowl.
Stir in red wine vinegar, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Slowly drizzle in olive oil while stirring until well combined.
Let the sauce sit for at least 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 1 cup of chimichurri.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Resting time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 20-25 minutes
Variations
Use only parsley for a more traditional Argentine version.
Add lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
Blend the sauce for a smoother consistency.
Include shallots or onions for an extra layer of flavor.
storage/reheating
Store chimichurri in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Bring to room temperature and stir before serving.
For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays and thaw as needed.
FAQs
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Fresh parsley is essential for the bright flavor, so dried is not recommended.
Is chimichurri spicy?
It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount to taste.
Can I use a blender for this sauce?
Yes, blending gives a smoother texture, but hand-chopping preserves more texture.
What dishes pair well with chimichurri?
It’s great with grilled steak, chicken, seafood, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
How long does chimichurri last?
It stays fresh in the fridge for about a week and can be frozen for longer storage.
Can I skip the vinegar?
Vinegar adds tang and balance; if omitted, the sauce will lack its signature zing.
Conclusion
Easy Chimichurri Sauce is your go-to condiment for adding a zesty, herbaceous punch to meals. Simple to prepare and incredibly versatile, it elevates everyday dishes into something special with minimal effort.
Print
Easy Chimichurri Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus 15 minutes resting)
- Yield: About 1 cup (serves 4–6 as a condiment)
- Category: Sauce/Condiment
- Method: No-cook, chopped
- Cuisine: Argentinian/Latin American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A bright, fresh, and easy-to-make Argentinian-style chimichurri sauce perfect for drizzling over grilled meats, vegetables, or seafood.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, finely chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried oregano)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup extra‑virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, cilantro (if using), minced garlic, and oregano.
- Add the red pepper flakes and mix well.
- Pour in the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice, stirring until blended.
- Season generously with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Let the sauce sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Bring to room temperature before using.
Notes
- Chimichurri is best made fresh but can be stored for up to a week.
- Use flat-leaf parsley for the best flavor and texture.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky twist, if desired.
- For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.