Easy Homemade Chimichurri Sauce | Perfect for Steak and Chicken

Chimichurri sauce
Chimichurri sauce
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Chimichurri is a vibrant, uncooked herb sauce from Argentina and Uruguay, made with fresh parsley, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bright, tangy, and slightly spicy, it’s traditionally used to cut through rich grilled meats like steak and chicken, but it’s just as delicious drizzled over vegetables, potatoes, eggs, or used as a quick marinade.

Fresh, bold, and ready in minutes, this classic Argentinian chimichurri sauce delivers big flavour with simple ingredients. Naturally gluten‑free and dairy‑free, it’s one of the easiest ways to add a punchy, herb‑packed boost to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and weeknight dinners.

If you’re looking for an easy chimichurri recipe, a steak topping, or a fresh homemade condiment, this sauce instantly lifts any dish.

Serving Suggestions with Chimichurri

  • Drizzled over grilled steak — the classic pairing; cuts through richness beautifully.
  • Spoon over roast chicken for a fresh, herby finish.
  • Serve with baked or grilled salmon to add brightness and acidity.
  • Toss with roasted vegetables like carrots, courgettes, peppers, or potatoes.
  • Drizzle over crispy Hasselback potatoes for a vibrant, garlicky hit.
  • Use as a marinade for chicken, prawns, tofu, or flank steak.
  • Stir through warm grains such as quinoa, couscous, or rice for a quick side.
  • Serve with grilled halloumi for a salty‑fresh contrast.
  • Add to tacos or burrito bowls for a punchy, herbaceous topping.
  • Finish fried or poached eggs with a spoonful for instant flavour.

Variations for Chimichurri Sauce

  • Spicy Chimichurri — Add extra chilli flakes or fresh red chilli for a hotter version with a fiery kick.
  • Coriander Chimichurri — Replace some of the parsley with fresh coriander for a brighter, citrusy flavour.
  • Mint Chimichurri — Add fresh mint for a refreshing twist that pairs especially well with lamb.
  • Lemon Chimichurri — Swap some of the vinegar for fresh lemon juice to create a lighter, zesty sauce.
  • Garlic Lover’s Chimichurri — Increase the garlic for a bolder, more robust flavour.
  • Smoky Chimichurri — Add smoked paprika for a subtle smoky depth that complements grilled meats.
  • Oregano-Rich Chimichurri — Increase the oregano for a more traditional Argentine-style flavour profile.
  • Basil Chimichurri — Add fresh basil for a fragrant variation with Mediterranean influences.
  • Lime Chimichurri — Use lime juice instead of some of the vinegar for a fresh citrus twist that works well with chicken and fish.
  • Parsley and Rocket Chimichurri — Blend in a handful of rocket for a peppery flavour and vibrant colour.
  • Roasted Garlic Chimichurri — Use roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, milder sauce.
  • Avocado Chimichurri — Blend in ripe avocado to create a creamy version that’s perfect as a dip or dressing.
  • Green Olive Chimichurri — Add finely chopped green olives for a salty, briny flavour boost.
  • Red Chimichurri — Include roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a richer colour and slightly sweeter taste.
  • Nutty Chimichurri — Stir in finely chopped toasted almonds or pine nuts for added texture and richness
Chimichurri sauce

Chimichurri sauce

This vibrant chimichurri sauce combines fresh herbs, garlic, olive oil, and tangy vinegar to create a bold, flavour-packed accompaniment for grilled meats, fish, and vegetables.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Sauce, Sides
Cuisine Argentine
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 1 handful of flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • ½ red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • good pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, add the finely chopped parsley, oregano, garlic, chilli, oil, red wine vinegar and mix together and season to taste.
  • Cover with cling film and refrigerate until you're ready to use.
  • If there is any sauce left over, pour into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week.