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Are you looking to add a burst of fresh, zesty flavor to your meals? Look no further than cilantro chimichurri! This vibrant sauce, a delicious twist on the classic Argentinian chimichurri, swaps out traditional parsley for cilantro, giving it a bold and herbaceous kick. Perfect as a marinade, topping, or dipping sauce, cilantro chimichurri enhances everything from grilled steaks to roasted vegetables.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or sprucing up a weeknight dinner, this versatile cilantro chimichurri sauce recipe will become your go-to condiment. Plus, with its quick prep time and easy customization options, you’ll have a gourmet touch ready in minutes. Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful staple and explore ways to make it your own!
How to Make Cilantro Chimichurri
Ingredients
To make this Cilantro Chimichurri Sauce Recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
- ½ cup fresh parsley leaves (optional for Cilantro Parsley Chimichurri Sauce)
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (optional for added zing)
Instructions to Make Cilantro Chimichurri
- Prep the Ingredients: Wash and dry the cilantro and parsley leaves thoroughly. Peel the garlic cloves.
- Blend: Add the cilantro, parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper to a food processor.
- Add Olive Oil: With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth but slightly chunky.
- Taste and Adjust: Check the seasoning and add more salt, pepper, or lime juice as desired.
- Store: Transfer the chimichurri to an airtight jar. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips to make perfect cilantro chimichurri
- Freshness is Key: Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Avoid using cilantro with yellowing leaves.
- Adjust Consistency: For a chunkier sauce, pulse the ingredients instead of blending until smooth.
- Customize the Heat: Increase or reduce the red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- Marinate with Chimichurri: Use it as a marinade for chicken or beef for deeper flavor.
Serving Ideas for Cilantro Chimichurri
- Grilled Meats: Drizzle over steak, chicken, or lamb.
- Seafood: Pair with grilled shrimp, salmon, or scallops.
- Vegetables: Toss with roasted or grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers.
- Side Dishes: Serve with crusty bread, roasted potatoes, or rice bowls for an herby kick.
- Pizza: Drizzle cilantro chimichurri over your favorite pizza, such as Digiorno’s Thanksgiving Pizza or Pickle Pie Pizza, for a fresh, herbaceous flavor
Variations of Cilantro Chimichurri
Spicy Cilantro Chimichurri
For a bolder, spicier version, add finely chopped fresh chilies like jalapeño or serrano to the cilantro chimichurri. This variation provides a delightful heat, perfect for grilled meats or seafood. Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili to suit your taste.
Cilantro Parsley Chimichurri
Incorporating both cilantro and parsley in equal parts creates a Cilantro Parsley Chimichurri Sauce. This variation brings a balanced flavor, combining the freshness of cilantro with the earthiness of parsley, making it a versatile accompaniment for all types of grilled foods.
Citrus Cilantro Chimichurri
For a tangy kick, try adding more citrus—swap the red wine vinegar for lime or orange juice. The citrusy variation of cilantro chimichurri brings a refreshing zing that pairs wonderfully with chicken, fish, or even tacos. This version is ideal for a summer barbecue.
Smoky Cilantro Chimichurri
Incorporating smoked paprika into your cilantro chimichurri sauce adds a rich, smoky depth. This variation complements grilled meats like steak or ribs beautifully, adding an earthy, charred flavor that enhances the overall profile of the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh cilantro?
While fresh cilantro is recommended for the best flavor and aroma in chimichurri, you can use dried cilantro in a pinch. However, dried cilantro may not offer the same bright, fresh taste. If you must use dried cilantro, reduce the quantity by about one-third, as dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh ones.
How can I make cilantro chimichurri spicier?
To add more heat, you can incorporate more red pepper flakes, or even add fresh chili peppers like jalapeño, serrano, or habanero. Adjust the level of spice to your taste, starting with small amounts and tasting as you go. You can also experiment with adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a different kind of heat.
How long does Cilantro Chimichurri last?
It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week when stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze cilantro chimichurri?
Yes! Freeze in ice cube trays for portioned servings. Thaw as needed.
What dishes pair best with this sauce?
Grilled steak, roasted sweet potatoes, and fish tacos are excellent choices.
Substitutes
- Cilantro Substitute: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, use parsley or basil for a unique twist.
- Acidic Elements: Replace red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or sherry vinegar.
- Oil Alternatives: For a lighter version, use avocado oil instead of olive oil.
Nutrition of Cilantro Chimichurri
A 2-tablespoon serving of cilantro chimichurri typically contains:
- Calories: 90
- Total Fat: 9g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 0.5g
This sauce is naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly, making it a versatile addition to many diets.
This flavorful Cilantro Chimichurri Recipe is the perfect way to elevate your meals, combining simplicity with bold flavors. Whether you’re using it as a marinade, dressing, or dipping sauce, its versatility will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
To make this Cilantro Chimichurri Sauce Recipe, you'll need:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
- ½ cup fresh parsley leaves (optional for Cilantro Parsley Chimichurri Sauce)
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (optional for added zing)
Instructions
Instructions to Make Cilantro Chimichurri
- Prep the Ingredients: Wash and dry the cilantro and parsley leaves thoroughly. Peel the garlic cloves.
- Blend: Add the cilantro, parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper to a food processor.
- Add Olive Oil: With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth but slightly chunky.
- Taste and Adjust: Check the seasoning and add more salt, pepper, or lime juice as desired.
- Store: Transfer the chimichurri to an airtight jar. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
Tips to make perfect cilantro chimichurri
- Freshness is Key: Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Avoid using cilantro with yellowing leaves.
- Adjust Consistency: For a chunkier sauce, pulse the ingredients instead of blending until smooth.
- Customize the Heat: Increase or reduce the red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- Marinate with Chimichurri: Use it as a marinade for chicken or beef for deeper flavor.
