This Chimichurri Sauce Recipe is a fresh, vibrant condiment that instantly elevates grilled vegetables, roasted dishes, and many of your favorite meals. Made with parsley, garlic, olive oil, and simple seasonings, this easy chimichurri sauce delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in just minutes
- Made with simple pantry and fresh ingredients
- Bright, herby, and flavorful
- Perfect for grilled vegetables and roasted dishes
- Naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly
- Great for meal prep and make-ahead meals
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 (about 1 bunch, coarse stems removed)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, sea salt, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika.
- Stir in the finely chopped parsley until evenly combined.
- For a more traditional texture, combine the ingredients using a mortar and pestle.
- Alternatively, pulse everything a few times in a food processor until combined but still slightly chunky.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve the Chimichurri Sauce Recipe over roasted vegetables, grilled vegetables, or your favorite savory dishes.
Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh flat-leaf parsley for the best flavor and texture.
- Allow the sauce to rest for 10–15 minutes before serving so the flavors can develop.
- Add extra red pepper flakes if you prefer more heat.
- For a brighter flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Avoid over-processing if using a food processor; chimichurri should have some texture.
- High-quality extra-virgin olive oil makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Sauce / Condiment
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Argentine-Inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Vegan, Vegetarian, Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free
Notes
- Substitute red wine vinegar for white wine vinegar if desired.
- Fresh cilantro can replace part of the parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, rice bowls, sandwiches, or salads.
- The sauce may thicken slightly after refrigeration; stir before serving.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 85
- Protein: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 145mg
FAQ
What is chimichurri sauce made of?
Traditional chimichurri sauce is made with fresh parsley, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and seasonings. This Chimichurri Sauce Recipe follows a simple version with pantry-friendly ingredients.
Is chimichurri spicy?
It has mild heat from red pepper flakes. You can increase or reduce the amount based on your preference.
Can I make chimichurri ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, the flavor often improves after resting for several hours in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with chimichurri sauce?
It pairs well with grilled vegetables, roasted vegetables, potatoes, grain bowls, sandwiches, and salads.
How long does chimichurri sauce last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, it typically stays fresh for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze chimichurri sauce?
Yes. Freeze in small portions or ice cube trays for convenient use later.
Storage
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer:
Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays.
Reheating:
No reheating is necessary. Allow refrigerated sauce to come to room temperature and stir before serving.
Similar Recipes
Easy 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 about 1 bunch, coarse stems removed
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, sea salt, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika.
- Stir in the finely chopped parsley until evenly combined.
- For a more traditional texture, combine the ingredients using a mortar and pestle.
- Alternatively, pulse everything a few times in a food processor until combined but still slightly chunky.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve the Chimichurri Sauce Recipe over roasted vegetables, grilled vegetables, or your favorite savory dishes.
Notes
- Substitute red wine vinegar for white wine vinegar if desired.
- Fresh cilantro can replace part of the parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, rice bowls, sandwiches, or salads.
- The sauce may thicken slightly after refrigeration; stir before serving.
Conclusion
This Chimichurri Sauce Recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to add freshness and bold herbaceous flavor to everyday meals. With fresh parsley, garlic, olive oil, and seasonings, it’s a versatile condiment you’ll want to keep on hand for vegetables, salads, and countless savory dishes.