Description
This vibrant Smoky Red Chimichurri Sauce is a game-changer for grilled meats. Featuring red bell pepper, fresh parsley, and cilantro, it delivers a bold, zesty flavor with a hint of smokiness. Easy to prepare, this sauce not only enhances your dinner plate with its stunning red hue but also allows for customization with your favorite herbs. Perfect for summer barbecues or any meal that needs a flavorful kick, this sauce will elevate your grilling experience to new heights.
Ingredients
- 1 red bell pepper, roasted and chopped
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 3/4 cup olive oil
- juice from 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- cayenne pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cut the red bell pepper in half, remove seeds and stems, and place it cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes or until the skin is blistered and charred.
- Remove from oven and allow it to cool slightly before peeling off the skin.
- While your bell pepper cools, finely chop about one cup each of fresh parsley and cilantro.
- Set the chopped herbs aside in a mixing bowl.
- Peel 2-3 garlic cloves and mince them finely.
- In your mixing bowl with chopped herbs, add in the peeled roasted red bell pepper (chopped), minced garlic, ¾ cup olive oil, ¼ cup red wine vinegar, juice from one lemon, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (to taste).
- Stir everything together until well-combined, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Notes
Storage: Store the Smoky Red Chimichurri Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing it in small portions, which can last up to three months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion when freezing.
Reheating: Chimichurri is best served fresh, but if you’ve stored it in the fridge, allow it to come to room temperature before serving. If you prefer a slightly warmer sauce, gently heat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from cooking too much.
Serving: This vibrant sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as steak, chicken, or pork. Drizzle it over your grilled dishes just before serving or use it as a marinade for added flavor. It also complements roasted vegetables and can be used as a dipping sauce for bread.
Chef’s Tip: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked sea salt or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the chimichurri. Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of cayenne pepper based on your preference for spiciness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Mixen
Nutrition
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0