Chimichurri Argentinean Herb Sauce Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes  

   Prep Time: 15 minutes

Chimichurri Argentinean Herb Sauce Ingredients

Chimichurri Argentinean Herb Sauce Instructions

  1. Finely chop 1 cup of flat-leaf parsley and 1/4 cup of fresh oregano leaves, then transfer them to a medium mixing bowl.
  2. Mince 4 garlic cloves and 1 small shallot very finely, and add them to the bowl with the herbs.
  3. Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and the zest of 1 lemon to the bowl.
  4. Pour in 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil over the herb and spice mixture.
  5. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly with a spoon until everything is well combined and the herbs are evenly coated with the oil and vinegar.
  6. Taste the chimichurri and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
  7. Let the chimichurri sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Estimated Calories: 80, Servings: 8

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Chimichurri Story

The first time I tried making this, I was in a rush and thought I could just throw everything together without really paying attention to the details. I figured it would be easy and fast, but I ended up with something that tasted way too sharp and overpowering. I realized that just because a recipe looks simple does not mean you can skip steps or ignore proportions. It was not the best result, and I remember thinking, "Well, that was not as delicious as I hoped." That experience taught me that even quick dishes need a little care and patience.
Another mistake I made was using ingredients that were not as fresh as they should have been. I thought it would be good enough, but the flavors just did not pop the way I wanted. It was a great lesson in how much quality matters, especially when you are making something that is supposed to be healthy and vibrant. Now, I always make sure to pick the freshest ingredients I can find, and it really makes a difference. The dish turns out so much better, and I feel good about what I am serving.
Over time, I learned that letting things sit for a bit before serving is key. At first, I would serve it right away, thinking that was the best way to keep things quick and easy. But after reading a few tips and trying it myself, I found that giving it a little time to rest lets the flavors blend together and become more balanced. It is amazing how such a small change can take something from just okay to truly delicious. Now, I am more patient and thoughtful in the kitchen, and it has changed the way I approach every recipe.

Chimichurri Pairings

When I think about the best flavors to pair with a good chimichurri, I always lean toward bold and fresh tastes. There is something about the tangy, herby punch of chimichurri that just begs for a quick squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of sea salt on the side. I once tried a recipe that added a touch of smoked paprika to the mix, and it was a delicious twist that really brought out the earthy notes. If you want to keep things healthy and easy, just stick with lots of fresh herbs and a splash of good olive oil. It is amazing how fast you can whip up something that tastes so vibrant.
For foods, I have found that grilled vegetables are a great match for chimichurri. I love tossing together a quick platter of charred zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, then drizzling that green sauce all over. It is such an easy way to make a meal feel special, and it is a healthy option too. Sometimes, when I am in a rush, I just grab some crusty bread and use chimichurri as a dip. It is one of those fast, no-fuss ideas that always gets rave reviews at my table.
When it comes to drinks, I think a chilled glass of Torrontés wine is the best companion for chimichurri. The floral and citrus notes in the wine really complement the herby, garlicky flavors of the sauce. If you are looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling limeade is a good choice, especially if you want something refreshing and easy to make. I have even tried a quick homemade iced tea with a hint of mint, and it was a delicious, healthy way to round out the meal.

Chimichurri FAQ

Oh, I absolutely love making a homemade Argentinian chimichurri! It's one of those recipes that's so easy and quick, but the flavor is just out of this world. I remember the first time I tried this delicious sauce at a friend's barbecue, and I immediately had to ask for the recipe. Since then, I've been experimenting with different ingredients and methods to find the best, most authentic version. If you're wondering how to make the perfect chimichurri, I've got some tasty tips and tricks up my sleeve.
People always ask me about ways to change up the classic Argentinian chimichurri recipe, so let me share some of my favorite FAQs and suggestions:
Can I swap out the parsley in the recipe? Absolutely! While authentic Argentinian chimichurri usually calls for fresh flat-leaf parsley, I've tried it with cilantro or even a mix of both for a unique twist. It still turns out delicious and keeps that fresh, herby vibe.
What if I want a spicier chimichurri? Oh, I totally get wanting a little extra kick! I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes or even a chopped fresh chili to the ingredients. It's a simple way to make the recipe more exciting and perfect for those who love heat.
Is there a way to make this recipe even quicker? For sure! If I'm in a rush, I just toss all the ingredients into a food processor and pulse a few times. It's not the most traditional method, but it's so easy and still gives you that tasty, homemade flavor.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? I've tried this when I was out of fresh parsley, and while it's not quite as vibrant, it still works in a pinch. Just remember to use less, since dried herbs are more concentrated. It's a great tip for making the best of what you have on hand.
How do I make my chimichurri last longer? I always make a big batch and store it in the fridge. Adding a little extra vinegar helps preserve it, and the flavors get even better after a day or two. It's the perfect make-ahead sauce for busy weeks!
Can I change the type of vinegar or oil in the recipe? Definitely! I've played around with red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and even lemon juice for a citrusy twist. As for oil, extra virgin olive oil is classic, but I've used avocado oil for a lighter taste. It's all about finding what works best for you.
What's the best way to serve Argentinian chimichurri? Honestly, I put it on everything-grilled steak, chicken, roasted veggies, even as a dip for bread. It's so versatile and adds a burst of flavor to any meal. That's the beauty of this simple, authentic recipe: it's always tasty, no matter how you use it!
If you're looking for more tips on how to make your chimichurri the best it can be, just let me know. I love sharing my favorite ways to tweak this classic Argentinian recipe!

About Chimichurri Recipe

If you're on a quest for the best Argentinian flavor explosion, look no further than this easy and delicious Chimichurri recipe. This homemade sauce is the secret weapon of every grill master in Argentina, and now you can learn how to make it in your own kitchen! With just a handful of simple ingredients, you'll whip up a quick and tasty condiment that's perfect for steak, chicken, or even as a zesty salad dressing. Forget bland meals-this authentic recipe is here to save your taste buds from boredom.
Let's talk about the magic behind this Argentinian classic. The best Chimichurri is all about fresh ingredients: parsley, garlic, oregano, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for that extra kick. The real trick is to chop everything by hand-no food processor shortcuts if you want that authentic texture! If you're wondering how to make your Chimichurri stand out, here's a tip: let it sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to mingle and become the life of the party (unlike your uncle at family gatherings).
Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this quick and easy recipe will have you feeling like an Argentinian grill master in no time. The best part? It's so simple, you'll wonder why you ever bought store-bought sauce. With these tasty tips and the perfect blend of ingredients, your homemade Chimichurri will be the star of every meal. So grab your parsley, channel your inner gaucho, and get ready to impress everyone with your new favorite recipe!

Chimichurri History

When I first learned about chimichurri, I was fascinated by its cultural origins. It is one of those recipes that really captures the spirit of Argentina, especially when you think about the country's love for asado, or barbecue. I remember chatting with an Argentinian friend who told me that the best gatherings always have a big slab of grilled meat and a bowl of this delicious, herby sauce. It is not just a condiment, it is a symbol of hospitality and togetherness. There is something so good about how a simple, easy sauce can bring people together and make a meal feel special.
Over time, I have noticed how the recipe for chimichurri has evolved. Originally, it was a pretty straightforward mix, but as people started experimenting, they found quick ways to tweak it to their own tastes. Some folks add a bit of spice, others throw in extra herbs, and I have even seen versions that use different kinds of vinegar. It is great how flexible it is, and I love that you can make a fast, healthy version with whatever you have on hand. The best part is that it is so easy to whip up, and you can adjust it to be as bold or as mild as you like.
What really amazes me is how chimichurri has influenced other cuisines. I have seen it pop up in everything from sandwiches to grain bowls, and it is become a favorite in places far from Argentina. Chefs love using it as a marinade or a topping, and it is a good way to add a fresh, vibrant kick to all sorts of dishes. I think the reason it has spread so quickly is because it is both healthy and delicious, and it is just so easy to make. It is one of those recipes that proves the best ideas travel fast and adapt well, no matter where you are.