Last Updated on June 15, 2021 by Chef Mireille
Chimichurri is a delicious parsley based sauce popular in Argentina and Uruguay. Although it is traditionally made with parsley, modern versions may be made with cilantro, mint and other herbs.
Similar to pesto, this versatile sauce can be used as a dipping sauce, marinade or condiment. It is mostly paired with barbecued grilled meats in Argentinian cuisine.
This post may include affiliate links.
Chimichurri is a classic sauce from Argentina that is usually used to accompany grilled meats. Grilling or a la plancha as its known in South America, is very popular and they grill everything from steak and chicken to arepas (cornbread). In fact most Argentinian restaurants here in New York are steakhouses that specialize in a la plancha.
Chimichurri has become quite popular here in America and used to flavor a variety of dishes in continental style restaurants. It can be used as both a marinade and a condiment or even a sandwich spread.
It complemented this Caribbean meal with tutu and salad.
Where to use Chimichurri Sauce
- as a marinade
- as a dipping sauce
- as a sauce with grilled or roasted meat like this Chimichurri Lamb Chops.
Here are some other foods that Chimichurri would compliment.
This no cook sauce is so quick and easy to put together. Keep a jar in the fridge and an easy marinade, dipping sauce, or sandwich addition is always on hand.
The vibrant color also makes you want to dig in. As the saying goes, we eat with our eyes first right!
Recipe Tools
Classic Chimichurri – Argentinian Pesto Sauce
Equipment
Ingredients
- 8 cloves garlic
- 1 small red onion about the size of a lemon
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 2 cups parsley leaves and stems
- leaves from 5 stalks fresh oregano
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ¾ cup olive oil
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine garlic, onion, red wine vinegar, parsley, oregano, salt, red pepper, black pepper and lemon juice.
- Blend well for a few minutes until well chopped.
- With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until you have a smooth and well combined sauce.
Notes
Nutrition
Do you know anyone else who likes learning about international recipes, culture, history and travel? Bring them over here to join the party! Don’t forget to use those share buttons!
Don’t forget to visit the RECIPE INDEX with over 1000 recipes from around the world including lots of Vegetarian Recipes and Gluten Free Recipes!
Maybe you are lucky enough to be traveling to Argentina where you can enjoy first hand the variety of ways chimichurri is used?
Mayuri Patel
Mireille loved this garlicky and refreshing chimichurri sauce. Made it with a mixture of parsley and coriander. Mixed my roasted potatoes in it. We loved it.
Chef Mireille
The coriander must give it such an awesome flavor. I really like that twist
Seema Sriram
The chimichuri sauce was absolutely delightful. We had it with roasted cauliflower and my kids loved it.
Chef Mireille
yes it’s absolutely delicious with any kind of roasted vegetables. So glad they enjoyed it!
Preethi
These garlicky Chimichuri sauce is so versatile . Love the colour of this sauce.Would love try your version soon.
Chef Mireille
I am sure you are going to love it when you do
Priya Vj
Chimmichuri sauce with parsley and garlic is just out of the world ..a perfect marinade variation for paneer, tofu and vegetables for a BBQ evening 🙂
Chef Mireille
Yes the freshness of chimichurri compliments barbecued foods perfectly
Mina Joshi
I love this vibrant dip made with everyday ingredients. I often have parsley left over and now I know what I can use it for.
Chef Mireille
Yes it’s the perfect use of this versatile herb