
Best Easy Vegan Chimichurri Sauce Recipe – 10-Minute Fresh Herb Sauce
Tangy, Herbaceous, and Oil-Free: A Healthy Twist on Traditional Argentine Sauce
This zesty vegan chimichurri sauce is a versatile condiment that adds a burst of fresh flavor to any dish. Perfect for drizzling over grilled vegetables, using as a marinade for tofu or tempeh, or as a dipping sauce for crusty bread. This easy-to-make sauce combines fresh herbs, garlic, and tangy vinegar for a delicious addition to your plant-based meals. Ready in just minutes, it’s an excellent way to elevate your vegan cooking with minimal effort.
Vegan Chimichurri: A Flavor-Packed Sauce with Hidden Health Perks
Vegan Chimichurri sauce packs a powerful nutritional punch while delighting taste buds. This Argentine-inspired blend of herbs, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil offers numerous health benefits, making it an excellent addition to any plant-based diet.
Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, and oregano provide a rich source of antioxidants, helping combat oxidative stress in the body. The extra virgin olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, potentially lowering bad cholesterol levels.
Chimichurri boasts immune-boosting properties from garlic and onions, which contain compounds linked to improved immune function. Though low in calories, the sauce delivers a wealth of nutrients, including vitamins C and K from herbs and lemon juice.
The herbs in Chimichurri, particularly parsley and cilantro, may aid digestion and reduce bloating. Additionally, the combination of olive oil and fresh herbs creates an anti-inflammatory blend, which could help combat chronic inflammation in the body.
Whether used as a marinade, a dip, or drizzled over grilled veggies, vegan Chimichurri sauce enhances both the flavor and nutritional value of your meals. It offers a delicious way to support your health while enjoying your food.
Remember, while Chimichurri provides many benefits, it should be part of a balanced diet for optimal health. Spice up your meals and your wellbeing with this flavorful vegan sauce!
Tangy, Herbaceous, and Oil-Free: A Healthy Twist on Traditional Argentine Sauce
Course: Snacks, Breakfast, DessertCuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy1 Cup
servings15
minutes60
kcalIngredients
1 cup fresh parsley, tightly packed
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, tightly packed
4 cloves garlic, peeled
1/4 cup red onion, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Rinse the parsley, cilantro, and oregano thoroughly. Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Remove the stems from the parsley and cilantro, keeping only the leaves.
- Add the parsley, cilantro, garlic cloves, red onion, and oregano leaves to a food processor.
- Pulse the mixture several times until the herbs and vegetables are finely chopped, but not pureed.
- Add the red wine vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the food processor.
- Pulse a few more times until all ingredients are well combined, but still maintain some texture.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your preference.
- Transfer the chimichurri sauce to a clean glass jar or airtight container.
- Let the sauce sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Note:
- For best flavor, use fresh herbs and consume the sauce within a few days of preparation.
10 Versatile Ways to Elevate Your Meals with Vegan Chimichurri
- Grilled Vegetable Topper: Brush sliced zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers with olive oil, grill until tender, then drizzle generously with Chimichurri. The sauce’s tangy flavor complements the smoky char of the vegetables.
- Tofu or Tempeh Marinade: Coat firm tofu or tempeh slices with Chimichurri and let marinate for 30 minutes before grilling or pan-frying. This infuses the protein with a zesty, herbaceous flavor.
- Roasted Potato Dressing: Toss quartered baby potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast until crispy, then mix with a few tablespoons of Chimichurri for a flavorful side dish.
- Avocado Toast Upgrade: Spread mashed avocado on toasted whole grain bread, then top with a spoonful of Chimichurri for a breakfast with a kick.
- Pasta Sauce: Toss hot, cooked pasta with Chimichurri for a light, fresh alternative to traditional pasta sauces. Add some roasted cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Grain Bowl Enhancer: Drizzle Chimichurri over a bowl of quinoa, roasted vegetables, and chickpeas for a nutrient-packed meal with vibrant flavors.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve alongside crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or vegan empanadas as a zesty dipping sauce.
- Sandwich Spread: Use as a spread on vegan sandwiches or wraps for an extra layer of flavor. It pairs particularly well with grilled vegetables or plant-based “meats”.
- Salad Dressing: Thin out the Chimichurri with a bit more olive oil and lemon juice to create a unique salad dressing.
- Pizza Topping: Drizzle over a vegan pizza just before serving for a fresh, herby finish that cuts through rich toppings.