Chimichurri is a fresh and zesty sauce from Argentina that adds a burst of flavor to grilled meats and vegetables. Made primarily from parsley, garlic, and olive oil, it’s a versatile condiment that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Whether you’re preparing a summer barbecue or simply looking to elevate your weeknight meals, this chimichurri recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this easy-to-make sauce!
Ingredients
– 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped (optional)
– Juice of 1 lime (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 1 1/2 cups of chimichurri sauce, serving approximately 6 people. Preparation time is around 15 minutes, with no cooking required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (2 tablespoons) of chimichurri contains approximately:
– Calories: 120
– Fat: 12g
– Saturated Fat: 1.5g
– Carbohydrates: 1g
– Protein: 0g
– Fiber: 0g
This nutritional information is for one person based on a serving size of 2 tablespoons.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by washing the parsley thoroughly under cold water.
2. Pat the parsley dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
3. Finely chop the parsley and place it in a mixing bowl.
4. Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the bowl with parsley.
5. Add the red wine vinegar to the mixture.
6. Pour in the olive oil, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
7. Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
9. If using, add chopped oregano and lime juice for extra flavor.
10. Stir until all ingredients are well blended and adjust seasoning as desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh parsley with cilantro for a different flavor profile. Red wine vinegar can be replaced with apple cider vinegar if preferred. Adjust the garlic according to your taste or use roasted garlic for a milder flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Chimichurri is perfect for drizzling over grilled steak, chicken, or fish. It also complements roasted vegetables, potatoes, and even as a marinade. Pair it with crusty bread for a delicious appetizer.
Storage and Reheating
Store chimichurri in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can also be frozen for up to three months. When reheating, allow it to come to room temperature before use to enhance its flavors.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not washing the herbs thoroughly can lead to grit in the sauce.
- Using dried herbs instead of fresh can diminish the flavor.
- Forgetting to adjust seasoning can result in a bland sauce.
- Over-processing the ingredients can make the sauce too smooth.
- Using low-quality olive oil can affect the taste of your chimichurri.
Helpful Tips
- For best flavor, let the chimichurri sit for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Use a food processor for quicker chopping, but avoid over-blending.
- Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint for unique variations.
- Try adding a splash of citrus zest for extra freshness.
FAQs
Can chimichurri be made in advance?
Yes, chimichurri can be made a day or two in advance. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious.
What dishes pair well with chimichurri?
Chimichurri is ideal for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even as a salad dressing. It enhances a variety of dishes.
Is chimichurri spicy?
The heat level of chimichurri can be adjusted based on your preference for red pepper flakes. Feel free to add more or less to suit your taste.
Can I use other oils besides olive oil?
Yes, you can use avocado oil or a blend of oils, but olive oil is traditional and offers the best flavor for chimichurri.
How long does chimichurri last in the fridge?
Chimichurri can last up to a week when stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Conclusion
This chimichurri recipe is a simple yet flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire. Perfect for enhancing grilled dishes, it’s a versatile sauce that will impress your guests and elevate any meal. Enjoy the fresh tastes and aromas that this vibrant sauce brings to your table!
Chimichurri Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime optional
Instructions
- Wash the parsley thoroughly under cold water and dry it.
- Finely chop the parsley and place it in a mixing bowl.
- Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the bowl with parsley.
- Add the red wine vinegar to the mixture.
- Pour in the olive oil and mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Add red pepper flakes for heat and season with salt and black pepper.
- If using, add chopped oregano and lime juice for additional flavor.
- Stir until all ingredients are well blended.
- Allow the chimichurri to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve drizzled over grilled meats or vegetables.
