Chimichurri Sauce is an uncooked sauce made from a blend of olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh herbs, shallot, garlic, jalapeno, salt, and red pepper flakes. This South American-inspired sauce or condiment is delicious over grilled meats, as a marinade, or used as a dipping sauce, just to name a few. I use it on my Surf and Turf Kebabs, which you will want to try!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Oil: Look for extra virgin olive oil, the highest grade of olive oil, to use as the base of the sauce.
Red Wine Vinegar: Red wine vinegar adds tanginess to the sauce. If you don’t have red wine vinegar, you could substitute white wine vinegar or lemon juice, but it will change the flavor profile a bit.
Shallot: The shallot adds an onion-like flavor and texture to the sauce. If using red onion or white onion, the flavors can be stronger.
Jalapeno: Jalapeno pepper adds a little bit of a kick to the sauce, as well as pepper flavor. If you don’t want the heat, simply leave it out or use a milder pepper like poblano or Anaheim.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley is the dominant herb, then oregano, basil, cilantro, and thyme add to the layer of flavors.
Red Pepper Flakes: Red pepper flakes, or crushed red pepper, provide a little heat to the sauce. If you do not want the added spice, leave it out. Or, add more for even more of a kick!
Can I Use Dried Herbs?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for the fresh herbs. However, because dried herbs are more potent than fresh, you will use about one-third less of dried versus fresh. So, use about 1/3 cup of dried parsley, a teaspoon of dried oregano, 2/3 teaspoon dried basil and cilantro, and 1/3 teaspoon dried thyme.
How To Use Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri sauce is a delicious sauce that can be used in a variety of ways to enhance dishes. Here are a few options to give you some ideas:
- Drizzle chimichurri sauce over grilled steaks, chicken, pork, or seafood just before serving.
- Use chimichurri sauce as a marinade for meats before grilling or roasting. Marinate the meat for a few hours or overnight to infuse it with the flavors of the sauce.
- Serve chimichurri sauce as a dipping sauce for bread, grilled vegetables, or even French fries.
- Spread chimichurri sauce onto sandwiches or wraps for a flavorful kick.
- Thin out the sauce with a little more olive oil to use as a dressing for a salad.
- Spread the sauce onto a pizza crust before adding cheese and other toppings.
Do I Have To Let The Chimichurri Sauce Rest Before Using?
For the best flavor, let the chimichurri sauce rest for an hour or two. This can enhance the flavors as the ingredients meld together. However, if you are in a hurry, you could use the sauce right away; it will still be flavorful!
How To Store Chimichurri Sauce
Store chimichurri sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to a week. When ready to use, give it a good stir to blend all of the separated ingredients.
Chimichurri Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup (214 g) extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup (119.5 g) red wine vinegar
- 1 medium shallot, finely diced (about ¼ cup)
- 1 medium jalapeno, seeded and finely diced (about ¼ cup)
- 1 cup fresh parsley, minced
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh basil, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh cilantro, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a large bowl. Stir to combine. Let the mixture rest at room temperature for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
- Store the sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Before using, stir to mix any separated ingredients.
Video
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What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
I love the fresh flavors in this sauce! This is a great dipping sauce or marinade!
Elizabeth
I am embarrassed to admit that I don't think I have ever tried Chimichurri sauce before…it was good! Very fresh and vibrant!
Rachael
So fresh and delicious! I love the flavors it adds to whatever you put it on. It is great on chicken, but I would also put it on steak or shrimp!
Annabelle
Super fresh, and really easy to make. This is a great way to elevate your meal!
Bella
This is such a great sauce. It tastes amazing on meats like chicken and steak. It has a slight tang and it tastes fresh overall because of all the herbs!
Selena
This sauce has such a burst of fresh flavors with all the herbs! I can imagine it being delicious on a lot of different meats.
Can you use dry herbs ?