Chimichurri Rojo

Name: Chimichurri Rojo
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Latin
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups roasted red bell peppers; ½ cup olive oil; ½ cup parsley; 3 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 ½ tablespoons white vinegar; ¼ cup lemon juice; 5-6 cloves garlic; Chili pepper flakes (to taste)

Published: November 12, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious sauce in under 10 minutes.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted red bell peppers, garlic, and spices creates a unique taste that enhances any dish.
Versatile Use: Perfect for grilled meats, but also great as a salad dressing or dip for veggies.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh herbs and healthy fats from olive oil, this chimichurri is not only tasty but also nutritious.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Chimichurri Rojo effortless. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Food processor or blender
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Food processor or blender: Essential for mixing the ingredients well to achieve your desired texture.
Measuring cups: Ensure you have accurate amounts of each ingredient for consistent flavor every time.
Spatula: Helps scrape down the sides of the blender or food processor to incorporate all ingredients evenly.

Ingredients

This chimichurri rojo, or red chimichurri, combines roasted red bell peppers, tangy vinegar, and a hint of smokiness, creating a savory condiment perfect for grilled meats and more.

For the Base

1 ½ cups roasted red bell peppers
3 teaspoons smoked paprika

For the Sauce

½ cup olive oil
½ cup parsley (measured by packing it in a cup)
1 ½ Tablespoons white vinegar
¼ cup lemon juice

For Seasoning

5-6 cloves garlic
½ teaspoon chili pepper flakes (read notes)
Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Chimichurri Rojo

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by collecting all your ingredients to make the preparation process smooth.

Step 2: Blend the Base Ingredients

Place all ingredients except olive oil into your food processor or blender.
Pulse until you reach your desired texture; pulse lightly for chunkiness or blend longer for a smoother consistency.

Step 3: Adjust Seasoning

Add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Blend briefly to mix.

Step 4: Transfer and Rest

Transfer the chimichurri rojo into a bowl. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Enjoy this delightful chimichurri rojo on your favorite grilled dishes!

How to Serve Chimichurri Rojo

Chimichurri rojo is a versatile condiment that enhances many dishes with its vibrant flavors. Here are some delicious ways to serve this red chimichurri.

Grilled Meats

Steak: Drizzle chimichurri over a juicy grilled steak for added flavor.
Chicken: Use it as a marinade or topping for grilled chicken breasts.
Pork Chops: Pair this sauce with pork chops for a smoky and tangy twist.

Seafood

Grilled Shrimp: Brush chimichurri on shrimp before grilling for a zesty finish.
Salmon: Serve over baked or grilled salmon for a fresh kick.

Vegetables

Roasted Veggies: Toss roasted vegetables in chimichurri for a savory side dish.
Grilled Corn: Slather on corn on the cob for a delightful summer treat.

Dips and Spreads

Bread Dip: Serve chimichurri with crusty bread as an appetizer.
Tacos: Use as a topping in tacos to elevate your meal.

How to Perfect Chimichurri Rojo

Creating the ideal chimichurri rojo requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your sauce shines.

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh parsley and garlic for the best flavor.
Adjust Spice Level: Modify the chili pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
Let It Rest: Allow the chimichurri to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Texture Preference: Blend less for a chunky texture or more for a smooth paste, depending on your taste.
Quality Olive Oil: Choose high-quality olive oil for richness and depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chimichurri Rojo

Chimichurri rojo pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, making your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options.

Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus complements the smoky notes of chimichurri.
Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf adds heartiness and balances the bright flavors of the sauce.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with herbs enhances your dish’s freshness.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges served alongside are perfect for dipping in chimichurri.
Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw contrasts nicely with the smoothness of red chimichurri.
Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with grains and beans, then top with chimichurri before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chimichurri Rojo, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Using raw bell peppers: Always use roasted red bell peppers for a richer flavor. You can roast them at home or buy them pre-roasted.
Skipping the vinegar: Vinegar adds essential tanginess. Don’t skip it; adjust the amount if you prefer more or less acidity.
Not letting it sit: Allowing the chimichurri to rest for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavors. This step is crucial for achieving the best taste.
Overprocessing: Depending on your texture preference, avoid blending too long. Pulse just enough to reach your desired consistency.
Ignoring seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving. Proper seasoning is key to elevating the flavors in Chimichurri Rojo.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Ensure that the lid is tightly sealed to preserve freshness.

Freezing Chimichurri Rojo

Pour into an ice cube tray for easy portions.
Cover with plastic wrap and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
It can last in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating Chimichurri Rojo

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on low power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
Stovetop: Heat gently in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring continuously until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chimichurri Rojo?

Chimichurri Rojo is a vibrant sauce made with roasted red bell peppers, herbs, and spices. It’s perfect for enhancing grilled meats or vegetables.

How long does Chimichurri Rojo last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Chimichurri Rojo can last up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Can I customize my Chimichurri Rojo?

Absolutely! You can adjust ingredients like garlic or spices based on your taste preferences. Adding extra herbs can also enhance its flavor profile.

Is Chimichurri Rojo spicy?

The spiciness of Chimichurri Rojo depends on the amount of chili pepper flakes you add. Feel free to adjust according to your spice tolerance!

What dishes pair well with Chimichurri Rojo?

Chimichurri Rojo pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce for bread. Its versatility makes it suitable for many dishes!

Final Thoughts

Chimichurri Rojo is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its combination of roasted peppers and spices enhances any meal, making it perfect for summer grilling or cozy dinners alike. Feel free to customize this recipe based on your taste preferences!

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