Easy Red Chimichurri Sauce (Chimichurri Rojo)

Name: Easy Red Chimichurri Sauce (Chimichurri Rojo)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-485540H26M16S
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Argentinian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup of OLIVE OIL (see notes); 1/2 cup of store-bought ROASTED RED BELL PEPPERS (finely chopped); 2 tablespoons of RED WINE VINEGAR (see notes); 4 GARLIC CLOVES (finely crushed or minced); 1/4 cup of finely chopped FLAT ITALIAN PARSLEY (dried parsley is not recommended); 1 tablespoon of finely chopped FRESH CILANTRO (dried cilantro is not recommended); 1 1/2 teaspoons of RED CHILI PEPPER FLAKES; 1 tablespoon of DRIED OREGANO (if using fresh oregano, triple the amount in this recipe or 3 tablespoons of fresh oregano); 1 1/2 teaspoons of SPANISH SMOKED PAPRIKA (PIMENTON AHUMADO); 1 tablespoon of WATER; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of COARSE SALT (like kosher); 1/2 teaspoon of BLACK PEPPER.

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 5 from 12 reviews

Red Chimichurri Sauce Recipe (Chimichurri Rojo) is a tasty fusion of roasted red bell peppers, parsley, cilantro, garlic, oregano, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and the incredible touch of Spanish smoked paprika (Pimentón Ahumado) working together to make a deep and complex sauce.

A versatile sauce typically used as an accompaniment for grilled meats. Still, it can also be used as a dipping sauce or marinade sauce. I always have a jar in my refrigerator for quick, impromptu cooking!

Red-Chimichurri-Sauce-Recipe-(Chimichurri-Rojo)-served-with-steak

This recipe is quick and easy to make if you are trying Chimichurri for the first time. It is absolutely delicious, and once you try this mildly spicy sauce, you will want to put it on everything. It will indeed become a staple in your kitchen!

Jump to:

What is Red Chimichurri sauce?
Recipe Origins - What ethnicity is chimichurri sauce?
Why You Will Love Red Chimichurri Sauce
What's the Difference Between Red and Green Chimichurri?
Uses for Chimichurri
Red Chimichurri Ingredients and Substitutions
Equipment needed
How to Make Red Chimichurri Sauce
Recipe Variations
How to Store Red Chimichurri
Red Chimichurri Frequently Asked Questions
Craving More Easy Sauce Recipes?
Sauces, Dips, Spreads, and Salsas
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What is Red Chimichurri sauce?

Chimichurri Rojo, or Red Chimichurri, is a variation of its green version, the classic chimichurri sauce (Chimichurri Verde), but uses the addition of roasted red peppers and smoked paprika, giving it a distinctive smoky flavor and a deeper red color. You can also enhance it with hot peppers for an extra kick.

A flavorful journey to South America with the perfect balance of salt, acidity, and smokiness!

Red-Chimichurri-Sauce-Recipe-(Chimichurri-Rojo)-in-white-bow

This was inspired by my Traditional Chimichurri Sauce recipe on this site, and goes well with this Grilled Skirt Steak,. And if feeling fancy, then my Chimichurri Steak Tacos.

Recipe Origins - What ethnicity is chimichurri sauce?

Chimichurri hails from Uruguay and Argentina, a place renowned for its beefy flavor steaks. The Argentinian chimichurri sauce is a staple in their culinary culture, slathering the sauce on all the meats in sight. It has become widely adopted in Latin America.

Why You Will Love Red Chimichurri Sauce

Easy, quick and bursting with flavor - once you make this red chimichurri recipe, you will wonder how you ever grilled without it. A fantastic dipping sauce offering a mildly spicy, tangy, and complex flavor that is irresistible!

Its red color is captivating, and its flavor profile makes you feel like a seasoned chef, even if you are starting out.

Trust me; this versatile sauce is a game-changer!

What's the Difference Between Red and Green Chimichurri?

While both share similar ingredients, the main difference lies in adding smoked red paprika and roasted red bell peppers to this red version, giving it a vibrant hue and slightly smokier taste. On the other hand, the green chimichurri sauce emphasizes green herbs only.

traditional-green-chimichurri-sauce-in-a-white-bowl-with-parsley-around — **Green Chimichurri**

Uses for Chimichurri

When you discover chimichurri, the infinitely adaptable sauce that Argentineans and Uruguayans serve with their grilled specialties, you will think of it as your trusty sidekick!

Chimichurri can be used in many ways. Whether you want to brighten your grilled steak, poultry, veggies, or tofu, this red chimichurri sauce recipe will elevate your meal to hero status.

Red-Chimichurri-Sauce-(Chimichurri-Rojo)-served-with-grilled-steak

Here are just a few serving ideas:

Serve as a condiment alongside grilled meats (traditional use). I love it on skirt steak or flank steak.
Marinate meats, such as steak, chicken, or fish (including Venison!).
As a dipping sauce for vegetables.
Mixed into a dressing for pasta salad, potato salad, or quinoa salad.
Drizzled over roasted vegetables to add moisture and flavor for a quick-and-easy side dish.
Add yogurt or sour cream to create a zesty dip.
Make chimichurri potatoes or chimichurri meatballs.

Red Chimichurri Ingredients and Substitutions

Your culinary arsenal for the best and easiest red chimichurri sauce recipe is here! Here is all you need to know to make your perfect Red Chimichurri.

ingredients-for-Red-Chimichurri-Sauce-Recipe-(Chimichurri-Rojo)

See the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for quantities

OLIVE OIL – Chimichurri is an oil-based sauce, and high quality oil is a crucial contributor to great flavor as the base of this sauce. I prefer olive oil, but you can use other non-flavored vegetable oils such as safflower, corn, canola, or avocado.
STORE-BOUGHT ROASTED RED BELL PEPPERS - finely chopped.
RED WINE VINEGAR - Essential in chimichurri sauce because it provides a sour, acidic flavor that helps balance the richness of the olive oil and the other ingredients. It also helps to preserve the color of the sauce and prevent it from spoiling. While "Red wine vinegar" is preferred for Chimichurri, you may substitute it with white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or Lemon Juice in a pinch. However, the flavor of the sauce will be different. I do not recommend balsamic vinegar.
GARLIC - finely crushed or minced.
FRESH FLAT ITALIAN PARSLEY - dried parsley is not recommended.
FRESH CILANTRO – Parsley is the traditional ingredient in Chimichurri. Still, I added cilantro to this red version for extra Latin flavor. Dried cilantro is not recommended.
RED CHILI PEPPER FLAKES - for a spicy kick
DRIED OREGANO - if using fresh oregano, triple the amount in this recipe. As indicated by The Spice House, dried herbs tend to be more potent than fresh herbs.
SPANISH SMOKED PAPRIKA (PIMENTON AHUMADO) - for a smoky flavor.
WATER
COARSE SALT - like kosher
BLACK PEPPER

Equipment needed

Cutting board
Large chopping knife
Garlic presser (optional but recommended)
Mixing bowl
Food processor (if you prefer a smoother consistency).

How to Make Red Chimichurri Sauce

Become the maestro of your kitchen in just THREE SIMPLE STEPS!

chopped-ingredients-for-Red-Chimichurri-Sauce-recipe

Chop and Measure the Ingredients: Unleash the bold flavors by crushing the garlic using a garlic presser and finely hand chop the fresh parsley, cilantro, and roasted red pepper.
Combine All the ingredients in a medium-sized bowl and mix well with a spoon until they're well-integrated.
Transfer: Let the sauce rest for 10 minutes to meld the flavors. If time is on your side, an hour would be splendid! Then, transfer to an air-tight container.

Tips for Success to Help You Make Your Best Chimichurri Sauce:

Freshness is key! Ensure all your ingredients, especially the parsley and cilantro, are fresh for a vibrant flavor. Try roasting your bell peppers at home for an even deeper smoky flavor.
Use high-quality ingredients, especially olive oil and roasted red peppers.
Be sure to use red wine vinegar! It is essential for the depth of flavor in Chimichurri. It helps to enhance the taste of the herbs and spices.
Garlic: I cannot stress enough about crushing the garlic with a garlic presser. Finely minced garlic works, but crushing the garlic is the best way to get the best flavor.
Parsley: Finely chop the parsley and then measure until you have 1/4 cup.

Feel free to adjust and enjoy this mouthwatering journey into Argentinian cuisine!

Recipe Variations

Swap out the roasted red bell peppers for piquillo peppers.
Add Fresno peppers, hot chili peppers, Thai Chilis, or any spicy peppers you love for a spicy take. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce also add a rich, delicious, and smoky flavor.
Food processor: I know some people (myself included) will say that traditional Chimichurri is not made in a food processor. But if you don’t have time for chopping, go right ahead and use your lovely machine. Pulse 2-4 times or 20 seconds, just enough to chop the ingredients. Do not over-blend, or it will impact the flavors.

How to Store Red Chimichurri

In the fridge: This flavorful sauce can be stored in a sealed, airtight container or mason jar for 2-3 weeks.
Note that Chimichurri may harden in the refrigerator. To serve, bring to room temperature and whisk well before serving.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze it! Freezing Instructions:
- Pour the Chimichurri into ice cube trays.
- Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.
- Thaw before use.

Red Chimichurri Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chimichurri Spicy?

It has a mild kick, but adjust the red pepper flakes to your liking.

Can You Make this Recipe in Advance?

Absolutely! The flavors meld better over time.

This sauce is all you need to enjoy perfectly grilled meat!

Red-Chimichurri-Sauce-served-on-grilled-steak-chimichurri-rojo

Did you make this recipe? Be the star of your own show and remember to share your culinary success stories with me by commenting below!

Craving More Easy Sauce Recipes?

Dive into more homemade sauces to jazz up your meals. And if this Argentinian gem has tantalized your taste buds, try my Traditional Argentinian Chimichurri Sauce (Green Chimichurri).