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Best Chimichurri Recipe

Best Chimichurri Recipe - Grandma's Tasty Recipes

When it comes to vibrant flavor combinations that can elevate any dish, chimichurri often steals the show. The zesty freshness of chimichurri has an almost magical ability to transform meats, veggies, and even grains into culinary masterpieces. 
Imagine drizzling this delectable sauce over grilled steak or a roasted vegetable platter. 
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: dressing
Cuisine: Uruguay
Calories: 126
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 to 3 4 garlic cloves, crushed or finely grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to preference
  • 1 small red chili or 2 if milder
  • 2 tablespoons aged red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon oregano, dried and lightly crushed
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely minced

Method
 

Step 1: Gather the Ingredients
  1. Before diving into the sauce creation, gather all your ingredients. It makes the process flow smoothly. Get a mixing bowl and your favorite stirring tool!
Step 2: Mind the Shallots
  1. In your mixing bowl, add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped shallots. Their soft sweetness will provide a great counterpoint to the bright flavors to come.
Step 3: Spice It Up
  1. Next, sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and use your spoon to mix it in with the shallots. The key here is to allow the flavors to mingle a bit, awakening the spices.
Step 4: Incorporate the Olive Oil
  1. This is where the magic begins. Pour in 1/2 cup of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Using a fork or whisk, mix everything together. This not only combines the flavors but also creates that luscious texture.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Chili
  1. Crush or finely grate 3 to 4 garlic cloves and drop them into the bowl, followed by the finely diced red chili. The heat level depends on your preference, so adjust accordingly.
Step 6: Vinegar Time
  1. Now, let’s bring some acidity into the mix. Pour in 2 tablespoons of aged red wine vinegar. This step adds brightness and rounds off the richness of the oil and garlic.
Step 7: Season to Perfection
  1. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of flaky sea salt and 3/4 teaspoon of lightly crushed oregano. Stir well to incorporate everything into a harmonious blend.
Step 8: Fresh Parsley Magic
  1. Last but surely not least, gently fold in 1/2 cup of finely minced fresh parsley. This adds that fresh, vibrant quality to your chimichurri.
Step 9: Rest the Sauce
  1. For the best flavors, let your chimichurri rest for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows everything to meld and develop the deep flavors we all crave.

Notes

Let me give you a bit more insight on the ingredients.
Shallots contribute a milder flavor than onions and help create a balanced taste without being too pungent.
Smoked Paprika is essential for adding that distinct depth. Trust me, it’s worth reaching for the smoked version instead of regular.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil not only provides health benefits but also enhances the flavor, making every bite richer.
Garlic offers a vibrant aroma that heightens the overall experience of the chimichurri.
Chili adds a fun element. Feel free to experiment. More chili means more excitement!
Red Wine Vinegar is more than just tangy; it brings a complexity that lifts all the ingredients.
Sea Salt enhances the flavors, bringing everything together. Try kosher salt if you prefer.
Oregano is the quiet supporter, ensuring you get that classic chimichurri flavor.
Parsley is your fresh touch. It’s not just for looks; it offers a contrast to the oiliness.