This homemade cilantro parsley chimichurri comes together in 5 minutes. It is vibrant, flavorful and absolutely delicious. A versatile condiment that will elevate any dish it is added to.
I always have this in my fridge as it is a great way to use leftover parsley or cilantro I have on hand. It can be used as a marinade, condiment, or even as an ingredient in your favorite dishes. Let me show you how to make it.
Cilantro parsley chimichurri recipe
If anyone tells you cilantro doesn't belong in chimichurri sauce then tell them they don't know what they are talking about.
The addition of cilantro to this sauce unlocks a new level of flavor and deliciousness. I know cilantro is not everyone's cup of tea. However, stay with me on this one and you won't regret it.
This version of chimichurri adds cilantro to give a delicious flavor and aroma to the sauce and it balances the mild flavor of the parsley well. The cilantro gives a slightly distinctive taste which adds to the overall richness and complexity of the sauce.
You can say this recipe is not authentic but what you can't take away from it is that it is absolutely delicious and pairs well with everything. It is just as good as basil pesto with the only difference being that the chimichurri is loose and not creamy as pesto because of the addition of parmesan cheese and pine nuts.
Cilantro parsley chimichurri is versatile and perfect for grilled meats, potatoes, rice, sandwich filling seasoning, marinade, and many more. It definitely adds a touch of brightness to any dish.
FYI, this recipe is naturally vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free.
Related recipes: instant pot cilantro lime rice, chimichurri potato salad and cilantro lime chicken thighs
What is chimichurri
Chimichurri is a classic Argentinian and Uruguay herby oil-based condiment made of freshly chopped parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. It's mostly used as an accompaniment or grilled meat or barbequed meat.
This sauce is very easy and quick to make, while it originally originated from Argentina, it is now popular and used all over the world with everyone putting their own spin on the original recipe.
Tools needed
Chopping board
Sharp knife or a food processor
Cilantro parsley chimichurri sauce ingredients
- Parsley leaves
- Cilantro leaves
- Dried oregano
- Red wine vinegar
- Red pepper flakes
- Olive oil
- Salt and back pepper
Variation
Some other recipes have the following other ingredients added to their condiments to make them stand out
- Shallots
- Onions
- Lemon juice
- Avocado
- Jalapeno or bird eye chili
How to make cilantro parsley chimichurri sauce
Wash the parsley and cilantro leaves, pat them dry, and discard the stems.
Using a sharp knife, finely chop the parsley, cilantro and garlic then transfer into a bowl.
Add in the dried oregano, chili pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, salt and freshly black pepper to taste.
Pour the olive oil into the bowl, and mix all ingredients until well combined. Your cilantro parsley chimichurri is now ready to use. However, it is best to leave this sauce in the fridge or on the countertop for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Alternatively, use the food process: If using a food processor, add the parsley, cilantro leaves, and garlic to the food processor bowl. Pulse it a few times until the herbs look finely chopped as you would with a knife. Make sure not to overprocess it as it is not meant to look mushy.
Transfer it to a bowl then add the rest of the ingredients and mix until well combined. Serve and enjoy
How to store
Cilantro parsley chimichurri can be stored in the fridge for 5-7 days. store it in an airtight container or jar.
You can also freeze it in an ice cube tray for later use. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. If you are not planning to use it immediately, make sure to cover the sauce with a thin layer of olive oil or plastic film before storing it. This will prevent the herbs from discoloring.
FAQs
What is chimichurri good on
Chimichurri is a versatile sauce and it's perfect on grilled meat, chicken, pork meat, vegetables and seafood. You can add it to a salad or add it to your sandwich filling, when you are looking for other ways to spice up your rice game add some chimichurri to it, and make chimichurri rice.
Add it to your burger, mayonnaise or omelet, the possibilities for the use of this sauce are endless so don't be afraid to experiment.
Is chimichurri the same as pesto
No, chimichurri and pesto are drastically different sauces. Pesto is made up of basil (or other herbs of choice), pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil whereas chimichurri is made up of parsley, (cilantro), garlic, oregano, red wine vinegar (lemon), and olive oil. The main difference between these two sauces is that pesto has a creamy texture due to the addition of parmesan cheese and pine nuts whereas chimichurri is a loose sauce.
More condiments you will love
Cilantro Parsley Chimichurri
Ingredients
- 30 g parsley leaves
- 20 g cilantro leaves
- 3 large garlic cloves or use as desired
- ½ Tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 Tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- Salt and back pepper
Instructions
- Wash the parsley and cilantro leaves, pat them dry, and discard the stems.
- Using a sharp knife, finely chop the parsley, cilantro and garlic then transfer into a bowl.
- Add in the dried oregano, chili pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, salt and freshly black pepper to taste.
- Pour the olive oil into the bowl, and mix all ingredients until well combined. Your cilantro parsley chimichurri is now ready to use. However, it is best to leave this sauce in the fridge or on the countertop for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Food processor instructions
- If using a food processor, add the parsley, cilantro leaves, and garlic to the food processor bowl. Pulse it a few times until the herbs look finely chopped as you would with a knife. Make sure not to overprocess it as it is not meant to look mushy.
- Transfer it to a bowl then add the rest of the ingredients and mix until well combined. Serve and enjoy
Nutrition
Nutritional data: Please note that the nutrition label provided is an estimate based on an online nutrition calculator. It will vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Under no circumstances will thedinnerbite.com be responsible for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information.
And there you have it, a simple and delicious homemade condiment recipe you can make at home in 10 minutes. As always, if you made this recipe, I would love to hear from you! Kindly rate the recipe 5 star and leave me feedback in the comment section below. Tag me @thedinnerbite on Instagram and save it away to your Pinterest. Please subscribe to the blog if you haven’t for free new recipes in your inbox
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