Discover the vibrant flavors of Argentina with our Cilantro Chimichurri Versatile Sauce! This zesty, herbaceous sauce is not just a condiment; it's a culinary game-changer that can elevate your salads, grilled meats, and even roasted vegetables to a whole new level. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a cup of this fresh, aromatic delight that will have your taste buds dancing. Ready to transform your meals? Dive into our easy-to-follow recipe and unlock the secret to a sauce that’s bursting with flavor!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Argentinian
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- Cilantro, fresh
- Parsley, fresh
- Garlic cloves
- Red wine vinegar
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Wash and thoroughly dry the fresh cilantro and parsley leaves to remove any dirt or moisture. Pat with clean kitchen towel.
- Trim the tough stems from both cilantro and parsley, keeping only the tender leafy parts. This ensures a smoother, more refined sauce texture.
- Peel the garlic cloves and remove any green sprouts from the center, which can add bitterness to the sauce.
- Place the cleaned cilantro, parsley, and peeled garlic cloves into a food processor or blender. If using a manual chopping method, finely mince all herbs and garlic.
- Add red wine vinegar to the herb mixture, which will help balance the flavors and act as a preserving agent.
- Slowly drizzle high-quality olive oil into the mixture while blending or processing to create a smooth, emulsified sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning to your preference.
- Transfer the chimichurri to a clean glass jar or container. For best flavor, let the sauce rest for 30 minutes before serving to allow herbs to infuse.
- Refrigerate the sauce and consume within 5-7 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Herbs: For the best flavor, use fresh cilantro and parsley. Avoid wilted or discolored leaves to ensure a vibrant sauce.
- Adjust the Garlic: If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the number of garlic cloves. Conversely, add more for a punchier flavor.
- Experiment with Acidity: While red wine vinegar is traditional, feel free to experiment with lemon juice or lime juice for a different twist.
- Blend to Your Liking: For a chunkier chimichurri, pulse the ingredients less. For a smoother texture, blend longer until emulsified.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chimichurri to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving enhances the flavors as the herbs meld together.
- Storage Tips: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge and use it within 5-7 days for the freshest taste.
- Versatile Uses: Don’t limit yourself—use this chimichurri not just for grilling, but also as a dressing for salads, a marinade for meats, or a dip for bread!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 240kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
