Name: Easy Homemade Chimichurri Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Argentinian
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh Italian parsley, loosely packed; 5 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed; 2 tablespoons shallots, roughly chopped; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; ½ lemon juiced (about 2 tablespoons); 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (dry works okay too, but fresh is more fragrant); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; ½ teaspoon red chili pepper flakes; ½ – ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil

Looking to add a burst of flavor to your dishes? This easy homemade chimichurri sauce recipe is the perfect solution. With its vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and zesty flavors, this sauce is a must-have for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great Flavors: The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and red wine vinegar creates a bold and tangy flavor profile that will elevate any dish.
Quick Prep Time: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this chimichurri sauce in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week, making it ideal for meal prepping and adding a pop of flavor to your meals.

Ingredient Notes:

Fresh Italian parsley: Adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the sauce.
Garlic: Provides a strong and aromatic kick to the sauce.
Shallots: Adds a mild onion flavor to the sauce.
Red wine vinegar: Adds acidity and tanginess to the sauce.
Lemon juice: Adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the sauce.
Fresh oregano: Adds a hint of earthy freshness to the sauce.
Salt, pepper, and red chili pepper flakes: Seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the sauce.
Extra virgin olive oil: Binds all the ingredients together and adds a rich and smooth texture to the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a food processor, combine the parsley, garlic, shallots, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt, pepper, and red chili pepper flakes.
Pulse the ingredients until finely chopped.
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while pulsing until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Transfer the chimichurri sauce to a jar and refrigerate until ready to use.

Helpful Tips:

For a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the red chili pepper flakes.
Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Adjust the amount of garlic and red chili pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
Store the chimichurri sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Let the chimichurri sauce sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or mint for a unique twist on the classic chimichurri sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

This chimichurri sauce pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce for bread. Serve it alongside your favorite dishes for a burst of fresh flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftover chimichurri sauce in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving to allow the olive oil to loosen up.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I freeze chimichurri sauce?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze chimichurri sauce in an ice cube tray for easy portioning.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, dried herbs can be used, but fresh herbs will give the sauce a more vibrant flavor.

How long will chimichurri sauce last in the fridge?

Chimichurri sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week if properly sealed and stored.

Conclusion:

With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this easy homemade chimichurri sauce is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. Give this recipe a try and let us know how you enjoyed it!