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Best Ever Chimichurri Recipe

4.8 from 124 reviews

This Best Ever Chimichurri Recipe is a vibrant and zesty Argentinean sauce, perfect for marinating and serving alongside grilled meats or vegetables. Made with fresh garlic, parsley, cilantro, olive oil, lemon juice, and a blend of spices, this versatile sauce brings bold, fresh flavors to any dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chimichurri Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh garlic (approximately 6 cloves, more or less to taste)
  • ½ cup fresh parsley leaves
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1 cup high-quality olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (4 tablespoons, from approximately 2 large lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper (more or less to taste)
  • ½ tablespoon table salt (plus more to taste)

Instructions

  1. Mince the Garlic: Add 2 tablespoons of roughly chopped fresh garlic to the bowl of a food processor. Pulse the garlic until it is finely minced, ensuring it breaks down evenly without turning into a paste.
  2. Chop the Herbs: Add ½ cup fresh parsley leaves and ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves to the food processor with the minced garlic. Pulse the mixture several times until the herbs are uniformly chopped. Use a silicone spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even chopping.
  3. Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add 1 cup of high-quality olive oil, ¼ cup fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper (adjust to taste), and ½ tablespoon table salt (adjust to taste) to the food processor. Pulse until the ingredients are well combined, taking care not to over-process and turn the mixture into a paste. Scrape down the sides again if necessary.
  4. Adjust Flavor: Taste the chimichurri sauce and add additional garlic, crushed red pepper, or salt if needed. Add these ingredients in small increments and pulse once or twice to incorporate. Continue tasting and adjusting until you reach your preferred flavor balance.
  5. Use or Store: Once satisfied with the flavor, use the chimichurri immediately to marinate your choice of meat or vegetables, or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. The sauce can be served chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use fresh, high-quality olive oil or avocado oil for the best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to control the heat level according to your preference.
  • The chimichurri can be made a day ahead to allow flavors to meld for a richer taste.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • This sauce is perfect for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a vibrant condiment for sandwiches.

Keywords: chimichurri, Argentine sauce, marinade, parsley sauce, garlic sauce, fresh herb sauce