Chimichurri (Argentinean Garlic Sauce)

Yields about 2 cups.

To learn more, read:
Three Easy Sauces for Grilled Food
by Steven Raichlen
from Fine Cooking
Issue 51
Last Edit Date: 7/5/2011 10:52:25 AM

In Argentina, chimichurri is served with parrillada -- a mixed grill of steak, chops, and sausages. Follow the Argentines' lead and serve this herb sauce spooned over just about any cut of grilled red meat. Chimichurri can also be paired with a sautéed chicken breast or a potato salad in need of some zip.

more about:

4 cloves garlic
1 tsp. kosher salt; more as needed
1 bunch flat-leaf parsley, stemmed and chopped (about 1-1/2 cups, lightly packed)
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 small carrot, finely grated
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1/2 tsp. dried red chile flakes
1/2 tsp. grated lemon zest
5 Tbs. white-wine vinegar or distilled white vinegar; more to taste
5 Tbs. cold water; more as needed
1 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Finely chop the garlic on a cutting board. Sprinkle the salt over it and repeatedly scrape the flat side of the knife over the garlic to mash it to a paste. Scrape the garlic paste into a medium bowl. Add the parsley, oregano, carrot, pepper, chile flakes, and lemon zest and mix. Add the vinegar and water and mix again. Whisk in the oil. Taste and correct the seasonings, adding salt, vinegar, water, or chile flakes: the sauce should be highly seasoned.

Chimichurri is delicious over any kind of grilled red meat.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make this sauce several hours ahead, but try to serve it the same day. It will keep for several days, but the parsley will lose its bright green color.

nutrition information (per serving):
Size : per Tbs.; Calories (kcal): 60; Fat (g): 7; Fat Calories (kcal): 60; Saturated Fat (g): 1; Protein (g): 0; Monounsaturated Fat (g): 5; Carbohydrates (g): 1; Polyunsaturated Fat (g): 1; Sodium (mg): 65; Cholesterol (mg): 0; Fiber (g): 0;