Dinner

Five Minute Chimichurri Sauce Recipe

ByEthan Lark September 9, 2025September 9, 2025

If you’re on the lookout for a bright, zesty sauce that can instantly transform any meal, this Five Minute Chimichurri Sauce is your new best friend. Packed full of fresh herbs, garlic, and a splash of vinegar, it bursts with vibrant flavors that feel like a party in your mouth. Whether you’re slathering it over grilled meats, drizzling it on roasted veggies, or using it as a lively marinade, this sauce comes together in just five minutes and makes every bite sing with freshness and a punch of flavor.

Five Minute Chimichurri Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Five Minute Chimichurri Sauce lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen not only to add distinct flavors but also to give the sauce its signature bright color and a balanced texture that’s both silky and slightly chunky.

1/2 cup flat leaf parsley: The star herb that provides an earthy, fresh base with vibrant green color.
2 tablespoons fresh oregano: Adds a slightly peppery, almost minty note that enhances the herbal complexity.
2 tablespoons green onion: Brings a mild, slightly sharp bite that keeps things lively.
1 teaspoon lemon zest: Infuses a bright citrus aroma to lift the entire sauce.
1 tablespoon garlic, minced: Offers pungent and savory warmth that is absolutely essential.
1 teaspoon chili pepper flakes: Adds a gentle heat that makes the sauce exciting without overpowering.
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Delivers that sharp acidic kick balancing the oil and herbs perfectly.
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil: The silky binder that melds all the flavors together smoothly.
Coarse salt, ground black pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that brings everything into harmony.

How to Make Five Minute Chimichurri Sauce

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Herbs

Start by roughly chopping your flat leaf parsley, fresh oregano, and green onion. No need for fine chopping, a rough cut gives the sauce a wonderful texture that’s rustic and fresh. This step is the base of flavor and texture, so take a moment to enjoy those fresh scents.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk your chopped herbs together with the lemon zest, minced garlic, chili flakes, and red wine vinegar. Each of these ingredients adds a bright layer of flavor — the lemon zest and vinegar for acidity, garlic for punch, and chili flakes for a touch of warmth.

Step 3: Add Olive Oil and Season

Pour in the extra virgin olive oil and whisk everything until the sauce is beautifully combined. Finally, season with coarse salt and fresh black pepper to your taste. This seasoning step is key because it brings out all the vibrant notes in the Five Minute Chimichurri Sauce.

Step 4: Let the Flavors Marry

Though you can use the sauce straight away, giving it at least 10 minutes to rest allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, deepening the taste and making it even more delicious. Just cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature while you finish preparing your meal.

How to Serve Five Minute Chimichurri Sauce

Garnishes

Sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or a few chili flakes on top of the sauce before serving can add an extra pop of color and freshness. A few lemon wedges on the side also complement the citrus notes beautifully.

Side Dishes

This sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or fresh shrimp. It’s also fantastic drizzled over roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Its bright, tangy flavor pairs perfectly with earthy, savory sides, bringing balance to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning your Five Minute Chimichurri Sauce over avocado toast for a zesty twist or use it as a vibrant dip alongside warm pita bread. Another great idea is to mix it into grain bowls or salads to instantly boost flavor and freshness. The possibilities are truly endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Five Minute Chimichurri Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to one week, but the flavors intensify and can become even more delicious as it sits.

Freezing

If you want to keep your chimichurri on hand for longer, freezing is an option. Use an ice cube tray to freeze portions, then transfer the frozen cubes to a resealable bag. This way, you can thaw small amounts as needed without compromising flavor.

Reheating

Since chimichurri is typically served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not necessary. Just take it out of the fridge and let it sit for a few minutes to take the chill off before serving. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are key to the vibrant flavor and color of this Five Minute Chimichurri Sauce, so it’s best to use fresh whenever possible. Dried herbs won’t provide the same brightness and may alter the texture.

Is chimichurri sauce spicy?

This Five Minute Chimichurri Sauce has a mild kick from the chili pepper flakes, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can easily adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your heat preference.

Can I make this sauce vegan?

Absolutely! This sauce is naturally vegan since it’s made with herbs, olive oil, and vinegar. It’s a fantastic plant-based way to add flavor to your meals.

What are some good dishes to pair with chimichurri?

Grilled meats like steak and chicken are classic pairings, but chimichurri is also stunning on roasted vegetables, fish, and even as a salad dressing or sandwich spread.

How long does Five Minute Chimichurri Sauce last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the sauce will stay fresh for up to one week, making it perfect for quick weeknight meals or entertaining guests.

Final Thoughts

Once you taste this vibrant, flavorful Five Minute Chimichurri Sauce, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. It’s a fresh, easy, and versatile condiment that breathes new life into so many dishes. I can’t wait for you to try making it yourself and share in the joy it brings to every meal. Happy cooking!