If you have a craving for something vibrant, zesty, and packed with fresh herbs, you will absolutely adore this Authentic Chimichurri Sauce Recipe (Fresh Herb & Garlic Marinade). It’s a classic Argentinian sauce that captures the essence of bright parsley, pungent garlic, tangy vinegar, and smoky spices all whisked together in luscious olive oil. Whether you drizzle it over roasted vegetables, use it as a bold salad dressing, or toss it with your favorite grains, this sauce brings any dish to life with its irresistible flavor and fresh herb aroma. It’s simple to make and elevates everyday meals into unforgettable experiences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Authentic Chimichurri Sauce Recipe (Fresh Herb & Garlic Marinade) plays a vital role in balancing the bold and fresh flavors. These ingredients are straightforward yet powerful, contributing brightness, spice, and texture to your sauce.
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil: Provides a smooth, rich base to carry all the flavors and add silkiness.
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar: Adds the perfect tangy bite that lifts the herbs and spices.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Delivers a punch of aromatic, savory depth that makes chimichurri memorable.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the vibrant elements while balancing the acidity.
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a subtle earthiness that complements the bright parsley.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Infuses gentle heat, giving a lively kick without overwhelming.
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a smoky warmth that rounds out the sauce beautifully.
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley: The star of the recipe, offering freshness, color, and that instantly recognizable chimichurri flavor.
How to Make Authentic Chimichurri Sauce Recipe (Fresh Herb & Garlic Marinade)
Step 1: Combine the Liquid and Spices
Begin by whisking together the extra-virgin olive oil and white wine vinegar in a small bowl. These two liquids create the bright and velvety foundation for your sauce. Then, add in the minced garlic, sea salt, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika. Whisk again to ensure the spices are evenly distributed and start infusing the oil and vinegar mixture with their layered flavors.
Step 2: Incorporate the Fresh Parsley
Next, gently fold in the finely chopped flat-leaf parsley. This fresh herb adds vibrant color and an unmistakable freshness that defines chimichurri. Be sure to remove any coarse stems beforehand for the best texture. If you prefer, you could also grind these ingredients gently together in a mortar and pestle for a more rustic texture or pulse lightly in a food processor for convenience.
Step 3: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste your chimichurri and adjust the seasoning if needed—sometimes a little more salt or vinegar can brighten it perfectly to your palate. Once you’re happy with the balance, your Authentic Chimichurri Sauce Recipe (Fresh Herb & Garlic Marinade) is ready to enliven your dishes. No cooking necessary, just pure fresh flavor!
How to Serve Authentic Chimichurri Sauce Recipe (Fresh Herb & Garlic Marinade)
Garnishes
This sauce makes an unforgettable garnish for all kinds of meals. Drizzle it generously over grilled steaks or chicken for an authentic Argentinian touch. It also works beautifully on roasted vegetables, adding a burst of herbal brightness.
Side Dishes
Chimichurri pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes. Spoon it over roasted potatoes or drizzle it on steamed green beans for a quick upgrade. Toss it with cooked quinoa, rice, or couscous to turn humble grains into exciting, flavor-packed companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your creativity further by using this sauce as a zesty salad dressing or a marinade for tofu or fish. You could even serve it alongside empanadas or drizzle over toasted crusty bread for a delightful appetizer that’s bursting with freshness and a hint of garlicky spice.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Authentic Chimichurri Sauce Recipe (Fresh Herb & Garlic Marinade) keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Store your leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy within 3 to 5 days for the best flavor and freshness. The flavors actually deepen and meld over time!
Freezing
This sauce freezes surprisingly well. You can portion it out in ice cube trays for convenient serving sizes. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag. This makes it easy to thaw small amounts whenever you want an herby flavor boost.
Reheating
Because chimichurri is typically served cold or at room temperature, you don’t need to reheat it. Simply remove from the fridge or freezer and allow it to come to room temperature before using so the flavors shine through.
FAQs
Can I use cilantro instead of parsley?
While cilantro offers a different flavor profile, traditional chimichurri relies on flat-leaf parsley for its bright, herbaceous notes. You could experiment by mixing both herbs, but parsley remains the authentic choice.
Is chimichurri sauce spicy?
This recipe includes red pepper flakes which add a gentle warmth rather than intense heat, creating a balanced flavor that enhances but does not overpower dishes.
Can I make chimichurri sauce without vinegar?
Vinegar is key for the tang and acidity in chimichurri, but if you prefer, lemon juice can be substituted for a fresher citrus note, keeping the sauce lively.
How long does chimichurri last refrigerated?
Stored properly in an airtight container, chimichurri stays fresh for 3 to 5 days. The flavors meld nicely, so a day or two of resting only makes it better.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Fresh parsley is essential for the vibrant color and bright flavor in chimichurri. Dried parsley won’t deliver the same freshness and should be avoided if possible.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the freshness and vibrant flavor of this Authentic Chimichurri Sauce Recipe (Fresh Herb & Garlic Marinade) to brighten up your meals. It’s easy to make, endlessly versatile, and brings a splash of Argentinian sunshine to your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how a simple herb and garlic marinade can transform your cooking into something extraordinary!
PrintAuthentic Chimichurri Sauce Recipe (Fresh Herb & Garlic Marinade)
This authentic Argentinian chimichurri sauce is a vibrant and tangy marinade made from fresh parsley, garlic, olive oil, and white wine vinegar. Perfect as a topping for roasted or grilled vegetables, meats, or tossed with grains, this easy-to-make sauce bursts with bright herbaceous and garlicky flavors that elevate any dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Argentinian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Chimichurri Sauce Ingredients
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley (from about 1 bunch, coarse stems removed)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, sea salt, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika until well mixed.
- Add Parsley: Stir in the finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley until evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
- Alternative Preparation: Optionally, you can combine all ingredients in a mortar and pestle for a coarser texture or pulse a few times in a food processor for quicker mixing.
- Season and Serve: Taste the chimichurri and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve immediately as a sauce over roasted or grilled vegetables, meats, or use as a dressing for salads or grains.
Notes
- Chimichurri can be stored in the freezer in ice cube trays for convenient portioning. Thaw to room temperature before use.
- This sauce keeps well refrigerated for up to one week.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your desired spice level.
- Using fresh parsley is key to achieving an authentic and bright flavor.