Fresh, zesty, and packed with bold herbs, this Jamie Oliver Chimichurri Recipe is a game-changer when it comes to sauces. Originally from Argentina, chimichurri is known for transforming simple grilled meats or vegetables into something exciting. With minimal prep time and basic pantry ingredients, this vibrant green sauce is quick to make and bursting with flavor.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Chimichurri?

Jamie Oliver’s Chimichurri is a tangy, herb-based sauce made from fresh parsley, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and chili. It’s blended briefly to keep its rustic texture and typically served over grilled steak, chicken, or roasted vegetables. It adds freshness and a punch of acidity to savory dishes.

Jamie Oliver Chimichurri recipe — Jamie Oliver Chimichurri

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Takes just 5 minutes to make – Quick flavor upgrade
Fresh, bold ingredients – Brightens up any grilled dish
No cooking required – Just chop, blend, and enjoy
Versatile and customizable – Adjust herbs or heat as needed
Perfect for meal prep – Keeps well in the fridge for days
Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free – Great for most diets

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver’s Chimichurri

1 bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley (about 50g)
2 garlic cloves
1 small red chili (or chili flakes to taste)
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Juice of ½ lemon (optional for extra zing)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Ingredient Notes:

Parsley: Use fresh flat-leaf parsley for the best flavor and texture.
Garlic: Adds depth—adjust the amount if you prefer a milder flavor.
Chili: Use fresh or dried; control spice level to your taste.
Vinegar: Red wine vinegar brings authentic tang—don’t skip it.
Olive oil: A good quality extra virgin oil makes a difference.

Equipment Needed

Sharp knife and cutting board
Food processor or blender (optional)
Mixing bowl
Spoon or spatula
An airtight jar or container for storage

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver’s Chimichurri

Step 1: Prepare the herbs

Wash the parsley thoroughly and pat dry. Remove thick stems and roughly chop the leaves.

Step 2: Chop or blend ingredients

Finely chop parsley, garlic, and chili by hand or pulse in a food processor until coarse.

Step 3: Add wet ingredients

Transfer to a bowl and stir in red wine vinegar, olive oil, and lemon juice if using.

Step 4: Season and rest

Add salt and pepper to taste. Let the chimichurri sit for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to develop.

Step 5: Serve or store

Spoon over grilled meats, vegetables, or bread. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver’s Chimichurri

Grilled steak or chicken – The classic pairing
Roasted vegetables – Adds freshness and contrast
Toasted crusty bread – Makes a quick appetizer
Fried or poached eggs – Brightens up breakfast
Tacos and wraps – Works as a spicy herb dressing
Seafood dishes – Pairs beautifully with grilled shrimp or fish
Rice bowls or grains – Adds flavor without heaviness

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Chimichurri

Use fresh ingredients only – Avoid dried parsley
Chop herbs by hand – For a more rustic, traditional texture
Let it sit before serving – Improves flavor blend
Taste and tweak – Adjust salt, chili, or lemon to your preference
Don’t over-blend – You want a coarse sauce, not a purée
Store in a glass jar – Helps preserve freshness and color
Add oregano for variety – A touch of dried oregano enhances the taste

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Chimichurri

Add cilantro – For a more Latin-inspired twist
Make it milder – Skip chili or reduce garlic
Use lime instead of lemon – Adds a different kind of citrus brightness
Add finely chopped shallots – For extra flavor and crunch
Include mint – Pairs well with lamb or yogurt-based dishes
Make it creamy – Blend with a little Greek yogurt or avocado
Turn it into a marinade – Add more oil and use it before grilling meats

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver’s Chimichurri

Use a clean, airtight jar – Keeps flavors locked in
Refrigerate immediately – Best used within 3–4 days
Cover with extra oil – Prevents oxidation and preserves green color
Don’t freeze – Herbs lose texture and color when thawed
Stir before using – Oil may separate after chilling

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver’s Chimichurri

Chimichurri is a no-cook sauce and should not be reheated. Here’s how to use it cold:

Bring to room temperature before serving – Enhances taste
Stir well to mix the oil and herbs evenly
Avoid microwaving – It can ruin texture and freshness

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chimichurri Healthier?

Reduce the oil – Use just enough to bring everything together
Add more herbs – Increase parsley ratio for fewer calories
Skip the salt – Let the acidity and herbs shine naturally
Use lemon instead of vinegar – Less sharp, gentler on the stomach
Blend in spinach or kale – Boosts nutrients subtly
Control garlic amount – Especially for sensitive stomachs
Use heart-healthy oil – Choose cold-pressed, organic varieties

Nutrition Value (per tablespoon, approx.):

Calories: 70
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 0.3g
Fiber: 0.2g
Sugar: 0g

FAQs

How do you keep chimichurri green and fresh?

To keep chimichurri vibrant green, use fresh herbs, avoid over-blending, and store it in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation.

Can chimichurri be made ahead of time?

Yes, chimichurri can be made 1–2 days in advance. In fact, letting it sit for a few hours enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together.

Do you blend or chop chimichurri?

Chimichurri is traditionally chopped by hand for a rustic texture, but a food processor can be used to save time—just avoid over-blending into a paste.

Should chimichurri be served hot or cold?

Chimichurri is always served cold or at room temperature. Heating it can dull the fresh flavor of the herbs and change the texture.

Final Words

This Jamie Oliver Chimichurri proves that big flavor doesn’t have to mean big effort. With its fresh herbs, kick of garlic, and zippy vinegar base, it’s a must-have condiment in your fridge. Spoon it over anything grilled, roasted, or toasted—and watch it bring your meals to life.