This Easy Chimichurri Rojo Sauce is a vibrant mix of fresh herbs, garlic, and a splash of red wine vinegar. It’s perfect for adding flavor to meats, veggies, or even bread!
I love how quick it is to whip up this sauce! Just blend everything together, and you’ll have a tasty addition in minutes. It brightens up any meal—trust me, your taste buds will dance! 💃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Parsley & Cilantro: Both herbs are key for that classic chimichurri taste. If you find cilantro too strong, you can use only parsley or substitute with basil for a different twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a punch of flavor. If you’re sensitive to raw garlic, roasted garlic can be a milder option, adding richness instead of sharpness.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds sweetness and color. You could use a roasted red pepper if you want a smokier taste or even omit it altogether for a more traditional chimichurri flavor.
Red Chili or Chili Flakes: Adjust the heat based on your preference. If you’re not into spicy, just skip the chili or use a pinch of black pepper instead.
Red Wine Vinegar: This vinegar gives a tangy kick. Apple cider vinegar also works well if you prefer a slightly different flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for its rich taste, but you can also use avocado oil for a lighter option.
How Do I Make the Sauce Nice and Chunky?
Getting the right texture for chimichurri is essential! Here’s how to achieve that slightly chunky feel:
- Use a food processor for quick chopping without pureeing the ingredients.
- Pulse just a few times—this keeps some bits intact, giving the sauce some texture.
- Be careful not to over-process; it’s better to have some larger pieces mixed in.
Letting the sauce sit is just as important. This helps the flavors mingle and deepen, so don’t skip that step!
Easy Chimichurri Rojo Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Herbs:
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, packed
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
Flavor Builders:
- 2-3 cloves garlic
- 1 small red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 small red chili or 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Pantry Essentials:
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy chimichurri sauce takes about 10 minutes to prep. Just blend everything together, let it sit for 15 minutes, and it’s ready to serve! Total time needed is about 25 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your fresh herbs and vegetables. Make sure to wash the parsley and cilantro thoroughly to remove any grit. Chop the red bell pepper and garlic to fit comfortably in your food processor or blender.
2. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In your food processor or blender, toss in the fresh parsley, cilantro, chopped garlic, red bell pepper, and red chili (or chili flakes). Pulse the mixture until everything is finely chopped but not pureed. You want to maintain a little texture in your sauce!
3. Mix in the Liquids and Spices:
Next, add the red wine vinegar, olive oil, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the mix. Pulse again a few times to incorporate everything into a slightly chunky sauce. Taste it and make any adjustments to the seasoning based on your preference!
4. Let It Rest:
To allow all the bold flavors to meld together, let your chimichurri sauce sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes. This step is key for the best flavor!
5. Serve and Store:
Enjoy your chimichurri rojo sauce with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or as a tangy marinade. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just give it a little stir before serving again!
This sauce is a delicious way to elevate your meals—enjoy! 🌿
Can I Use Different Herbs for the Chimichurri?
Absolutely! While parsley and cilantro are traditional, you can experiment with other herbs like basil or mint for a unique flavor. Just keep the ratios similar for balance.
Can I Make This Sauce Spicier?
Yes! If you prefer a spicier chimichurri, you can increase the amount of red chili or chili flakes. Alternatively, add a chopped jalapeño for a fresh heat boost!
How Should I Store Leftover Chimichurri Rojo Sauce?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If the oil solidifies, simply give it a good stir or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
What Dishes Pair Best With Chimichurri Sauce?
This chimichurri rojo sauce is perfect for grilled meats like steak, chicken, or fish. It also pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, bread for dipping, or even as a zesty salad dressing.
