Cilantro Mint Chimichurri

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 6
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Get ready to elevate your meals with this vibrant Cilantro Mint Chimichurri. It's a fresh twist on the classic chimichurri, adding a zesty, herby kick that's perfect for summer grilling or brightening up a simple dish.

Ingredients for Cilantro Mint Chimichurri

The base of our chimichurri is cilantro, which brings a bright, citrusy flavor that’s a little different from the traditional parsley version. We complement this with mint, adding a refreshing coolness that balances the heat. Garlic provides the essential pungency and depth, while olive oil ensures a rich, smooth texture. Red wine vinegar adds a tangy sharpness, and a splash of lime juice introduces a zesty kick. Red pepper flakes offer a bit of heat, and salt and black pepper round out the flavors, enhancing each ingredient's taste.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you find the chimichurri too thick, add a bit more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.
  • For a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic cloves before adding them.
  • Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This chimichurri shines as a topping for grilled steak or chicken, adding a fresh burst of flavor. It's also fantastic drizzled over roasted vegetables or used as a marinade. Try mixing it into quinoa or couscous for a herby side dish. Feeling creative? Use it as a spread on sandwiches or wraps for an unexpected twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are essential for the vibrant flavor of this chimichurri, so I don't recommend using dried ones.
How long does this chimichurri last?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. The flavors will meld and intensify over time.
Can I freeze the chimichurri?
Absolutely! Portion it into ice cube trays, freeze, and then store the cubes in a zip-top bag for up to three months. Thaw as needed.

Cilantro Mint Chimichurri Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gathering all your ingredients to make the process smooth. Place the cilantro, mint, and garlic into your food processor. Give them a few pulses until they're coarsely chopped, but not pulverized. You want to see some texture in there.

Next, add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Go ahead and process everything until the mixture is smooth. You might need to scrape down the sides a few times to make sure everything is well integrated. Taste your chimichurri and adjust the seasoning if necessary—everyone's palate is different, so feel free to tweak it to your liking!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make with just a food processor.
  • Bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors that enhance any meal.
  • Versatile enough to pair with meats, veggies, or grains.
  • A great way to use up extra cilantro and mint from the garden.

Ingredients

1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
4 cloves garlic
1/3 cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine cilantro, mint, and garlic.
2. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
3. Add olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
4. Process until smooth, scraping down sides as needed.
5. Adjust seasoning to taste.

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