Chimichurri is an tasty blend of chopped herbs, oil, vinegar, and garlic. It's delicious on everything from vegetables to chicken, and it can keep in the fridge. But while chimichurri is certainly tasty, it can get a little mundane after a while. If you're looking for ideas to breathe new life into your chimichurri, here are two recipes for chimichurri with a twist.

Citrus Chimichurri

The flavors of orange and lemon go so well with the flavors of fresh herbs. This recipe ties all of these ingredients together in a really fresh and refreshing citrus chimichurri that is wonderful with grilled meats in the summer.

You'll need:

  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
  • 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • a pinch of salt
  • a pinch of black pepper

Chop all of the herbs finely. Mince the garlic. Combine these two ingredients in a glass bowl, and drizzle in the juices and olive oil while whisking constantly. Season with the salt and pepper. Cover your chimichurri, and let it rest on the fridge for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This gives the flavors time to blend and deepen. Keep in the fridge, and use as desired within about five days.

Creamy Chimichurri Dip

This recipe is quite original since the result is a creamy dip, not an oily chimichurri. However, since classic chimichurri dipping sauce ingredients are used, the dip has the flavor of chimichurri. It is tasty on vegetables and even pretzels as a snack. 

You'll need:

  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves
  • 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Mince the herbs finely, and set them aside. Whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, and vinegar until the mixture develops a smooth, uniform consistency. Add the herbs, salt, pepper, and garlic, and continue whisking to combine. Place the dip in a covered container, and let it rest in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. It should keep for up to 10 days in the fridge.

Chimichurri has a delicious, classic blend of flavors and is therefore a lovely choice for many meals and dishes. With these two recipes, you can expand your chimichurri repertoire and enjoy the sauce even more.  

Share