Homemade Chimichurri Sauce

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Vibrant, zesty, and packed with bold flavor, this homemade chimichurri sauce is the ultimate companion for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even crusty bread. It hails from Argentina and Uruguay, known as a go-to condiment for anything hot off the grill. With its mix of fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil, chimichurri balances brightness and richness in every spoonful.

What makes this sauce so captivating is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy tools or hard-to-find ingredients—just a cutting board and a knife or food processor. Whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue or spicing up a weeknight dinner, this sauce instantly elevates your dish with a hit of freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Chimichurri Sauce

Chimichurri brings life to whatever it touches. It’s garlicky, herbaceous, and tangy with just the right touch of spice. You’ll love how it cuts through the richness of grilled steak, how it adds depth to grilled shrimp, and how it turns roasted potatoes into something magical. Plus, it comes together in just minutes and stores beautifully for days.

What Herbs Are Best in Chimichurri?

Fresh parsley is the classic base of chimichurri, often paired with oregano. Flat-leaf parsley is preferred for its bright, clean flavor, but curly will do in a pinch. You can experiment by adding fresh cilantro or even a touch of mint for a twist, but traditionalists usually stick to parsley and oregano. The key is using fresh herbs—dried just won’t deliver the same punch.

Ingredients for the Homemade Chimichurri Sauce

Every ingredient in chimichurri serves a purpose. Together, they build a sauce that’s bold yet balanced.

Fresh flat-leaf parsley gives the sauce its vivid green color and fresh flavor.

Fresh garlic adds sharpness and a savory depth that builds the foundation of the sauce.

Red wine vinegar brings brightness and acidity that makes the sauce pop.

Olive oil provides body and richness, helping the flavors meld together.

Dried oregano introduces a subtle earthy note that enhances the parsley.

Red pepper flakes give a gentle kick of heat.

Salt balances and elevates all the other ingredients.

How To Make the Homemade Chimichurri Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Herbs and Garlic

Start by finely chopping the fresh parsley and garlic. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can pulse them together in a food processor.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a bowl, combine the parsley, garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir in the red wine vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes to let the flavors infuse.

Step 3: Add the Oil

Slowly pour in the olive oil while stirring. This helps emulsify the sauce and create a cohesive texture.

Step 4: Season and Rest

Add salt to taste and let the sauce sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This rest time allows all the flavors to mingle and deepen.

Serving and Storing Chimichurri Sauce

This recipe yields enough chimichurri to serve about 6 people generously. It pairs beautifully with grilled steak, chicken, seafood, roasted vegetables, and even breakfast eggs. To store, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Stir before each use, as the oil may separate.

What to Serve With Chimichurri Sauce?

Grilled Steak

The most iconic pairing. Chimichurri and a perfectly seared steak are a match made in culinary heaven.

Roasted Vegetables

Toss your favorite vegetables in olive oil, roast until golden, and drizzle with chimichurri.

Grilled Shrimp or Fish

Seafood gains a burst of brightness from the herbaceous sauce.

Chicken Skewers

Dip grilled chicken skewers into chimichurri for a zesty finish.

Crusty Bread

Use it like a dipping oil for slices of warm, crusty bread.

Tacos or Wraps

Add a spoonful to your taco or wrap for a fresh, tangy kick.

Baked Potatoes

Drizzle chimichurri over baked potatoes or mashed potatoes to switch up your usual sides.

Want More Sauce and Condiment Ideas?

If chimichurri makes your meals sing, these other sauce-forward recipes will strike the same chord:

• Try this rich Homemade Ketchup Recipe for a DIY twist on the classic.
• Spice it up with Slap Ya Mama Seasoning, a punchy southern blend.
• For something comforting and savory, Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon delivers incredible flavor.
• Dip into Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake for a side dish smothered in creamy goodness.
• Or take a peek at Baked Potatoes in Foil with Parmesan Ranch Sauce if you’re craving a hearty side.

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Let me know how yours turned out! Did you go traditional, or did you experiment with cilantro or mint? Maybe you added extra garlic? I’d love to hear how you made it your own.

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