Chimichurri

Chimichurri is a bright green Argentine sauce of parsley, garlic, oregano, vinegar and olive oil. It is spooned over grilled meats to add freshness and a gentle kick. It also works on vegetables, fish and sandwiches.

Chimichurri

Chimichurri Sauce Recipe (13294574784): Dominic Lockyer, CC BY 2.0 (Wikimedia Commons)

Where it comes from

Chimichurri is a staple of the Argentine grill and is also popular in Uruguay and Paraguay. Every family has its own balance of herbs and heat.

Explore the cuisine of Argentina.

Recipe

Make Chimichurri at home

Serves 6Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 large bunch flat-leaf parsley (about 1 cup, finely chopped)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano (or 2 teaspoons dried)
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons white vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon warm water

How it's made

  1. Finely chop the parsley and oregano by hand for the best texture.
  2. Combine with the garlic, pepper flakes and salt in a bowl.
  3. Stir in the warm water to dissolve the salt.
  4. Whisk in the vinegar and then the olive oil.
  5. Let sit for at least 30 minutes so the flavors blend.
  6. Serve at room temperature over grilled meat, or store in the fridge up to 5 days.

Variations

  • Chimichurri rojo: with roasted red pepper and paprika.
  • Cilantro chimichurri: with cilantro replacing some of the parsley.

Cook’s tip: Chop by hand rather than using a blender so the sauce stays textured and vibrant.

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About this page

Description and method written by Intercontinental Chef. Home-style method; quantities are a starting point, so adjust to taste.

Photo credit
  • Chimichurri Sauce Recipe (13294574784): Dominic Lockyer, CC BY 2.0 (Wikimedia Commons)