Have you ever stumbled upon a sauce so incredibly versatile and delicious that you want to put it on everything? Well, buckle up, because we’ve got a real game-changer for you! This peculiar yet irresistible sauce is about to become your new go-to condiment, elevating even the most ordinary dishes to culinary masterpieces.

The Magic of Chimichurri Sauce

Hailing from the vibrant cuisine of Argentina, chimichurri sauce is a zesty, herby, and slightly spicy condiment that packs a serious flavor punch. This unassuming green sauce is traditionally served with grilled meats, but its versatility knows no bounds. Whether you’re grilling up some juicy steaks, roasting a batch of crispy potatoes, or even just looking for a way to liven up your sandwiches, chimichurri has got you covered.

The beauty of chimichurri lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients like parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil, you can whip up a batch of this magical sauce in mere minutes. The bright, herbaceous flavors of the parsley and garlic are perfectly balanced by the tangy acidity of the vinegar, while the olive oil lends a luxurious smoothness to the mix.

One of the best things about chimichurri is how well it complements a wide range of proteins. From succulent grilled steak to juicy chicken, pork chops to grilled shrimp, this sauce has a way of making everything taste better. The bold flavors of the chimichurri cut through the richness of the meat, while also adding a fresh, vibrant note to the dish.

Tip: For an extra kick of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño to your chimichurri sauce.

But chimichurri isn’t just for meat-lovers. This sauce is equally delicious when drizzled over roasted or grilled vegetables. Imagine biting into a perfectly charred ear of corn, only to be greeted by the bright, garlicky flavors of chimichurri. Or picture a platter of colorful roasted veggies, their natural sweetness enhanced by the tangy, herby notes of the sauce. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.

Chimichurri: The Ultimate Sandwich Spread

Move over, mayo and mustard, because chimichurri is about to become your new favorite sandwich spread. Whether you’re making a classic roast beef sandwich, a veggie-packed wrap, or even a simple grilled cheese, a generous schmear of chimichurri will take your creation to new heights.

The bold, zesty flavors of the sauce have a way of cutting through the richness of the meat and cheese, while also providing a fresh, herbaceous counterpoint to the other ingredients. Plus, the vibrant green color of the chimichurri adds an eye-catching pop to any sandwich, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try using chimichurri as a marinade for your sandwich meats. Simply coat your chicken breasts or pork tenderloin in the sauce before grilling or roasting, and get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite. The acidity of the vinegar helps to tenderize the meat, while the herbs and garlic infuse it with a mouthwatering aroma and taste.

Tip: For a quick and easy chimichurri chicken salad, mix shredded grilled chicken with a generous dollop of the sauce, and serve on a bed of crisp greens.

And let’s not forget about the humble french fry. While ketchup may be the classic dipping sauce of choice, chimichurri has a way of elevating even the most basic of spuds. The tangy, garlicky flavors of the sauce provide a welcome contrast to the crispy, salty fries, making for a truly addictive snack.

Chimichurri: Your New Culinary Secret Weapon

So, there you have it, folks. The weird sauce that you should be putting on everything is none other than the mighty chimichurri. With its bold, zesty flavors and incredible versatility, this Argentinian staple is sure to become a regular in your culinary repertoire.

Whether you’re grilling up a feast for friends and family, looking for a way to liven up your weeknight dinners, or just in need of a new sandwich spread, chimichurri has got you covered. So go ahead, whip up a batch of this magical sauce, and get ready to take your taste buds on a wild ride.

And who knows, maybe you’ll even start carrying a little jar of chimichurri in your purse or pocket, ready to add a pop of flavor to anything and everything you eat. Because when it comes to this weird and wonderful sauce, the possibilities are truly endless.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start slathering chimichurri on everything in sight! Your meals will never be the same again, and your taste buds will be forever grateful. Trust us, once you go chimichurri, you’ll never go back.

Chimichurri Sauce

Course: CondimentsCuisine: Argentinian

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Elevate your meals with this zesty, herby, and incredibly versatile chimichurri sauce! Perfect for grilled meats, sandwiches, and more.

Ingredients

1 cup fresh parsley leaves, tightly packed
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
3-4 garlic cloves, peeled
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Rinse the parsley leaves under cold water and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Remove any tough stems and discard. Roughly chop the parsley leaves and place them in the bowl of a food processor.
Add the peeled garlic cloves, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to the food processor with the parsley. Pulse the mixture a few times until the parsley and garlic are finely chopped, scraping down the sides as needed.
With the food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the feed tube. Process until the mixture is well combined and resembles a thick sauce, about 30-60 seconds. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Add the red wine vinegar to the food processor and pulse a few more times until fully incorporated. Taste the chimichurri and adjust the seasoning as desired with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
Transfer the chimichurri to a small bowl or jar with a tight-fitting lid. If not using immediately, cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, stirring before each use.

Notes

For a chunkier chimichurri, chop the parsley and garlic by hand and whisk in the remaining ingredients.
Experiment with other herbs like cilantro, mint, or basil for a unique twist.
Use chimichurri as a marinade for meats, a spread for sandwiches, or a dipping sauce for bread and vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does chimichurri sauce last in the fridge?
A: Homemade chimichurri sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week when stored in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation. Be sure to stir the sauce before each use.

Q: Can I freeze chimichurri sauce?
A: Yes, you can freeze chimichurri sauce for longer storage. Pour the sauce into ice cube trays and freeze until solid, then transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw the desired amount overnight in the fridge before using. Frozen chimichurri will keep for up to 3 months.

Q: Is chimichurri sauce spicy?
A: Traditional chimichurri sauce has a slight kick from the garlic and red pepper flakes, but it’s not overly spicy. You can adjust the heat level to your liking by adding more or less red pepper flakes, or omitting them entirely for a milder sauce.

Q: What else can I use chimichurri sauce for besides grilled meats?
A: Chimichurri is incredibly versatile! Try it as a sandwich spread, a dipping sauce for crusty bread or roasted vegetables, a salad dressing, or even as a pasta sauce. It’s also delicious stirred into scrambled eggs or drizzled over pizza. The possibilities are endless!

The Unusual Sauce That Elevates Any Dish