Authentic Chimichurri Recipe

Nothing livens up a grilled steak, juicy chicken, or a platter of roasted vegetables quite like a vibrant and zesty Authentic Chimichurri Recipe. This classic sauce from Uruguay and Argentina is summer in a bowl: fresh herbs, garlic, a pop of chili heat, and lush olive oil—simple, but life-changing. Bold, beautiful, and outrageously flavorful, it’s a secret weapon for cooks who love easy, dramatic flavor.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Authentic Chimichurri Recipe proves that extraordinary flavor is all about quality, not quantity. Each ingredient shines—adding punchy color, tantalizing aroma, or a surprising kick. Here’s what makes this sauce sing:

• Olive Oil: The smooth, fruity base that unites all the bright flavors and gives the sauce a luscious, glossy texture.
• Red Wine Vinegar: A spark of acidity that wakes up your palate and balances the richness of the oil.
• Fresh Parsley: The star herb—crisp, green, and essential for that classic chimichurri character.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers signature sharpness and depth throughout.
• Red Chili: Offers customizable heat and a splash of bold color—seed it for mild, or leave some seeds in if you like a little fire.
• Dried Oregano: Adds an earthy, slightly minty warmth that’s key for that unmistakable authentic flair.
• Coarse Salt: Seasoning to bring forward the best in each ingredient—don’t skimp!
• Black Pepper: The subtle, spicy underpinning that ties all the other flavors together.

Variations

One of the best things about the Authentic Chimichurri Recipe is how easy it is to tweak. Whether you want a bolder sauce, need to adapt for dietary needs, or simply want to use up what’s in your kitchen, chimichurri has you covered!

• Extra Herby Chimichurri: Add fresh cilantro or a touch of fresh oregano for a vibrant herbal twist.
• Lemon Zest Power: Substitute lemon juice and zest for the red wine vinegar for a bright, citrusy spin.
• No Chili, No Problem: Skip the chili if you prefer a mild sauce, or use a pinch of smoked paprika for subtle warmth and color.
• Make It Keto: This recipe is naturally low-carb, but you can omit the red wine vinegar and use apple cider vinegar for an even gentler sauce.

How to Make Authentic Chimichurri Recipe

Step 1: Chop and Prep Your Ingredients

Start by finely chopping your fresh parsley, garlic, and red chilies. There’s no need for a food processor here—hand chopping gives you the best texture and helps the chimichurri hold up on grilled meats or vegetables. Aim for small, even pieces so the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Mix and Marinate

Add all your chopped ingredients to a bowl, then pour in the olive oil and red wine vinegar. Sprinkle over the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with a spoon. Let the sauce rest for at least 10 minutes so the flavors can marry—though if you have extra time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours makes it even better and more robust.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

After the resting period, give your chimichurri a taste. Need more heat? Add extra chili or a pinch of pepper. Want it tangier? Another splash of vinegar does the trick. Chimichurri is endlessly forgiving—customize it exactly the way you love!

How to Serve Authentic Chimichurri Recipe

Garnishes

Garnish your Authentic Chimichurri Recipe with an extra flourish of fresh parsley, a sprinkling of chili flakes, or a drizzle of olive oil for that glossy, mouthwatering finish. For a festive touch, scatter a few thinly sliced chilies across the top—beautiful and inviting.

Side Dishes

Chimichurri transforms just about anything it touches! Try it as a bold topper for grilled steaks, roast chicken, pork chops, or fish. It’s also sensational drizzled over new potatoes, roasted vegetables, crusty sourdough, or as a lively sauce for grain bowls and salads.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Authentic Chimichurri Recipe in a rustic bowl with a small spoon for drizzling, or pour it into tiny jars for each guest at a dinner party. Swirl it on a platter underneath grilled kebabs, or use as a dip for fresh bread at your next barbecue—unexpected, but absolutely irresistible!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chimichurri keeps beautifully for up to a week in the fridge. Store it in a jar or airtight container, and stir before serving since the oil may separate (that’s totally normal!).

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze chimichurri! Pour it into silicone ice cube trays, freeze until solid, then pop out cubes for quick access to instant flavor. Thaw in the fridge and give a gentle stir before using—so handy!

Reheating

No need to reheat chimichurri, as it’s meant to be served at room temperature or cold. Just set your sauce out 10-15 minutes before serving for the best texture and taste—let those flavors shine on their own.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a new flavor adventure, I can’t recommend trying this Authentic Chimichurri Recipe enough! It’s fast, fun, endlessly customizable, and a guaranteed hit at any table. Enjoy every vibrant spoonful—you’ll wonder how your kitchen ever lived without it.

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