Grilling season wouldn’t be complete without a solid collection of scratch-made sauces in your arsenal. Sure, you have your go-to barbecue sauce, maybe even a mustardy Carolina variety, but when was the last time you spooned a zippy drizzle of garlic, herbs, chilis, and the exactly correct amount of red wine vinegar over a perfectly charred ribeye?
This Cilantro Chimichurri brings a punch of complex, fresh flavor to contrast the savory notes of your summer grilling. Use it as a marinade or finishing sauce (or both!) on chicken thighs, ribs, and veggies of all sorts. You really can’t go wrong.
Cilantro Chimichurri Sauce
Yields: 1 cup of sauce | Prep Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
½ cup avocado oil or olive oil
3 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon fresh grated garlic
½ teaspoon Kosher salt
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon coriander
¼ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
¼ cup finely chopped fresh Italian parsley
Equipment:
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Medium mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Jar or container for storage
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, use a whisk to combine the oil, vinegar, grated garlic, and dry herbs and spices.
- Fold in the finely chopped herbs.
- For optimal flavor, cover and let sit at room temperature for an hour to allow the flavors to marinate.
- Spoon over your grilled meats and veggies and enjoy!
Notes:
- In place of the mixing bowl and whisk, use a 12-oz. jar with a lid and shake all ingredients vigorously for less dishes and a quick storage method.
- You can also make this sauce with a large mortar and pestle or in a food processor if you prefer.
- This chimichurri sauce will last in the fridge for about four days. Bring back to room temperature before using as the oil will solidify in the fridge.
- If cilantro isn’t your favorite of the herbs, swap it out with Italian parsley, chives, or whichever herbs you prefer. Part of the fun is playing with ingredients to see what delights you.
Amber Schultheis is a monthly contributing writer for Snohomish City Lifestyle and owner of The Host Notes. The Host Notes inspires readers to live and cook with intention. Visit and explore with Amber at https://thehostnotes.com and follow @thehostnotes on Instagram!