Cilantro Chimichurri: 5 Bold Flavors for Every Meal

Name: Cilantro Chimichurri: 5 Bold Flavors for Every Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Argentinian
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh cilantro, stems and leaves included; 3 cloves garlic, peeled; 1/4 small red onion, peeled and roughly chopped; 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 cup olive oil; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

by basmer

23 de February de 2026

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Cilantro Chimichurri is a zesty, herbaceous sauce featuring fresh cilantro, garlic, and a hint of spice, ideal for enhancing any meal with bright flavors. This vibrant condiment not only celebrates the freshness of cilantro but also brings a delightful zing to your dishes. Whether you’re drizzling it over grilled meats or using it as a marinade, this easy cilantro chimichurri recipe will elevate your culinary creations.

Why You’ll Love This Cilantro Chimichurri

There are many reasons to adore this herb-based condiment. First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, taking only 10 minutes from start to finish. Second, it’s versatile; you can use it as a cilantro garlic sauce for grilled meats, or as a cilantro vinaigrette for salads. Third, it’s packed with flavor, balancing the freshness of cilantro with the warmth of garlic and spices. This chimichurri with cilantro is also vegan, making it a suitable addition to various diets. Lastly, it’s a great way to use up leftover cilantro, ensuring nothing goes to waste!

Ingredients for Cilantro Chimichurri

Gather these items:

2 cups fresh cilantro, stems and leaves included
3 cloves garlic, peeled
1/4 small red onion, peeled and roughly chopped
2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 cup olive oil
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make Cilantro Chimichurri Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh cilantro, peeled garlic cloves, roughly chopped red onion, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, red wine vinegar, and 1/2 cup of the olive oil.
Step 2: Pulse the mixture until all ingredients are finely minced.
Step 3: Add the remaining 1/2 cup of olive oil to the minced mixture and gently stir to combine thoroughly.
Step 4: Transfer the prepared chimichurri sauce to a mason jar or airtight container. Allow it to rest at room temperature for at least 20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cilantro Chimichurri

Keep these in mind:

This sauce pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes according to your taste.
If you prefer a smoother texture, blend longer until desired consistency is reached.

Best Ways to Serve Cilantro Chimichurri

Here are some delicious ideas to enjoy your chimichurri:

Drizzle over grilled steaks or chicken for a burst of flavor.
Use as a marinade for seafood or tofu before grilling.
Mix it into your salads as a fresh cilantro dressing.

How to Store and Reheat Cilantro Chimichurri

Store any leftover chimichurri sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for meal prep and can last up to one week. Just remember to give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cilantro Chimichurri

What’s the secret to perfect Cilantro Chimichurri?

The key is to let the chimichurri sit for at least 20 minutes after blending. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your sauce. Using fresh ingredients, particularly cilantro, makes a significant difference in flavor.

Can I make Cilantro Chimichurri ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making your cilantro chimichurri ahead of time is a great way to enhance its flavor. Just store it in the refrigerator and use it within a week for the best taste. It’s perfect for meal prepping.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cilantro Chimichurri?

To avoid common pitfalls, be careful not to over-blend; you want a chunky texture, not a puree. Also, taste your chimichurri before serving; adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to achieve the perfect balance.

Variations of Cilantro Chimichurri You Can Try

Feel free to explore these variations:

Mix in some parsley for a cilantro and parsley sauce that adds depth to the flavor.
Substitute lemon juice for red wine vinegar for a different tang.
Add diced jalapeños for a spicy twist, creating a cilantro chimichurri marinade that packs a punch.
Incorporate nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture and richness.

Cilantro Chimichurri: 5 Bold Flavors for Every Meal - Cilantro Chimichurri - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making cranberry orange pancakes for a delightful breakfast. If you’re looking for a great side dish, our creamy potato soup pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.

For additional tips on using fresh herbs in your cooking, you can visit Healthline for more information.

Cilantro Chimichurri: 5 Bold Flavors for Every Meal

Author: basmer
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: Approximately 2 cups 1x
Diet: Vegan

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Description

A zesty, herbaceous sauce featuring fresh cilantro, garlic, and a hint of spice, ideal for enhancing any meal with bright flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups fresh cilantro, stems and leaves included
3 cloves garlic, peeled
1/4 small red onion, peeled and roughly chopped
2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 cup olive oil
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh cilantro, peeled garlic cloves, roughly chopped red onion, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, red wine vinegar, and 1/2 cup of the olive oil.
Pulse the mixture until all ingredients are finely minced.
Add the remaining 1/2 cup of olive oil to the minced mixture and gently stir to combine thoroughly.
Transfer the prepared chimichurri sauce to a mason jar or airtight container. Allow it to rest at room temperature for at least 20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.