If you’re looking to add a zesty, herb-filled punch to your pizza, this Chimichurri Pizza Sauce recipe is perfect for you! Chimichurri, an Argentine staple, is typically used to top grilled meats, but here we’re transforming it into a bright, tangy pizza sauce.
This sauce elevates any pizza, adding a fresh and bold flavor just like the Sweet Tomatoes Chimichurri Pizza Sauce. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that will wow your taste buds!
What so Special About This Chimichurri Pizza Sauce?
The vibrant blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and a kick of chili, offering a zesty, tangy alternative to traditional pizza sauces makes this Chimichurri Pizza Sauce so special. Unlike classic tomato-based sauces, Chimichurri delivers bold, herbaceous flavors that brighten up any pizza with a fresh, aromatic taste.
The red wine vinegar and lemon juice add a pleasant acidity, while olive oil provides a rich, smooth texture. This sauce is not only versatile but also quick to prepare, making it a flavorful and unique pizza topping.
Ingredients for Chimichurri Pizza Sauce Recipe
- ½ bunch parsley (about ½ cup, chopped)
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped oregano
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed
- ½ cup chopped spring onion
- 1 small red chili pepper (seeds and membrane removed, finely chopped)
(Can substitute with 1-2 teaspoons red chili powder, adjust for heat tolerance) - 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 120 mL olive oil (you can use other oils, but olive oil gives a rich taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment & Tools Required
- Medium bowl: For mixing all the ingredients together.
- Chopping board: For chopping herbs, garlic, and chili.
- Chef’s knife: To finely chop parsley, oregano, garlic, spring onion, and chili.
- Garlic press: To easily press the garlic cloves.
- Measuring spoons and cups: For accuracy in measuring vinegar, oil, and lemon juice.
- Mixing spoon: To combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Servings: Makes about 1 cup of sauce
How to Make Pizza Sauce Using Sweet Tomatoes Chimichurri Olive Oil
Step-01: Prepare the ingredients
Start by finely chopping the parsley, oregano, spring onion, and chili pepper. If you’re using garlic cloves, press them using a garlic press or mince finely.
Step-02: Mix everything together
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, oregano, garlic, spring onion, and chili. Add the red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil.
Step-03: Season and stir
Add salt and pepper to taste, then mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
Step-04: Chill and serve
For the best flavor, let the Chimichurri sauce rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. While the sauce can be stored for up to 48 hours, it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Creative Serving Ideas for Chimichurri Pizza Sauce
1. Classic Margherita with a Twist: Replace traditional tomato sauce with Chimichurri on a Margherita pizza. Top with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of extra parsley for a vibrant flavor.
2. Grilled Vegetable Pizza: Pair Chimichurri sauce with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers. The herby sauce complements the smoky flavor of the veggies perfectly.
3. Steak and Chimichurri Pizza: Chimichurri is famous for pairing with grilled meats, so try it as a sauce on a pizza topped with thinly sliced steak, mozzarella, and arugula.
4. Shrimp Pizza: Spread Chimichurri over your pizza base and top with cooked shrimp, a sprinkle of chili flakes, and some fresh herbs for a seafood lover’s dream.
5. Chimichurri and Mushroom Pizza: Combine the earthiness of sautéed mushrooms with the brightness of Chimichurri. Add some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy finish.
6. Chicken Chimichurri Flatbread: Use Chimichurri as a base on a flatbread topped with grilled chicken, red onions, and bell peppers. Add a squeeze of lime for extra zest.
7. Garlic Bread with Chimichurri Drizzle: Serve Chimichurri as a dipping sauce for garlic bread or spread it over freshly baked pizza crust as a flavorful alternative to butter.
8. Chimichurri and Feta Pizza: The saltiness of feta pairs beautifully with the tangy Chimichurri. Top your pizza with a mixture of feta cheese, olives, and roasted red peppers.
9. Chimichurri Breakfast Pizza: Spread Chimichurri over a pizza crust and top with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a handful of rocket for a savory breakfast treat.
10. Side with Fresh Salad: Serve your Chimichurri pizza with a light side Caesar salad made from mixed greens, avocado, and a simple lemon vinaigrette. The fresh, zesty flavors complement the sauce perfectly.
URRecipe Community Tips on Chimichurri Pizza Sauce Recipe
1. Use Fresh Herbs: For the best flavor, always use fresh parsley and oregano. Dried herbs won’t provide the same vibrant taste and texture.
2. Adjust the Spice: If you’re sensitive to heat, use less chili pepper or chili powder. On the other hand, if you love spice, feel free to add extra for a fiery kick.
3. Let the Sauce Rest: After mixing the ingredients, let the Chimichurri sauce rest for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
4. Don’t Overmix: While it’s important to combine the ingredients well, avoid overmixing. You want the sauce to have texture, not turn into a puree.
5. Balance the Acidity: If you find the vinegar and lemon juice too tangy, balance it out by adding a bit more olive oil or a pinch of sugar.
6. Experiment with Oil: While olive oil adds richness, you can experiment with lighter oils like grapeseed or avocado oil for a milder flavor that lets the herbs shine.
7. Make It Ahead: Chimichurri sauce can be made ahead of time, but it’s best used within 24-48 hours to maintain its fresh flavor. Keep it stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
8. Use It Beyond Pizza: This sauce isn’t just for pizza! Try it as a marinade for grilled meats, a dip for crusty bread, or a drizzle over roasted vegetables.
9. Customize the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two. For a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic first before adding it to the mix.
10. Season at the End: Taste the sauce after it has rested and adjust the seasoning. Sometimes, flavors intensify after sitting, so you may need to add a pinch more salt or pepper just before serving.
How to Store Leftover Chimichurri Pizza Sauce?
To store leftover Chimichurri Pizza Sauce, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best consumed within 24-48 hours to maintain its fresh flavors.
If needed, stir well before using, as the oil may separate over time. Avoid freezing, as the fresh herbs can lose their vibrant taste and texture.
Chimichurri Pizza Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ bunch parsley about ½ cup, chopped
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped oregano
- 4 cloves garlic pressed
- ½ cup chopped spring onion
- 1 small red chili pepper seeds and membrane removed, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 120 mL olive oil you can use other oils, but olive oil gives a rich taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by finely chopping the parsley, oregano, spring onion, and chili pepper. If you’re using garlic cloves, press them using a garlic press or mince finely.
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, oregano, garlic, spring onion, and chili. Add the red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, then mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- For the best flavor, let the Chimichurri sauce rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. While the sauce can be stored for up to 48 hours, it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Video
Notes
Common queries on Chimichurri Pizza Sauce Recipe
These commonly asked questions and their short answers will give you an better understanding of this Chimichurri Pizza Sauce Recipe
1. What does Chimichurri sauce contain?
Chimichurri sauce is typically made with fresh parsley, garlic, oregano, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red chili. Some variations may include spring onions, lemon juice, and other herbs or spices for added flavor.
2. What is Mexican Chimichurri made of?
Mexican Chimichurri is similar to the Argentine version but often includes cilantro in addition to or instead of parsley. It may also feature a touch of lime juice, cumin, and sometimes a bit of jalapeño for added heat.
3. How to make Chimichurri sauce Jamie Oliver-style?
Jamie Oliver’s version of Chimichurri sauce typically includes a blend of fresh parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red chili. He often recommends chopping everything by hand for a rustic texture and emphasizes using high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
4. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for Chimichurri sauce?
While fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use about half the amount of dried parsley and oregano, but the texture and flavor may be less vibrant than when using fresh herbs.
5. How long can Chimichurri sauce be stored?
Chimichurri sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. However, it’s best consumed fresh, as the flavors start to lose their intensity after a couple of days.
6. What can I substitute for red wine vinegar in Chimichurri sauce?
If you don’t have red wine vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. The flavor may vary slightly, but it will still add the necessary acidity.
7. Can I freeze Chimichurri sauce?
Yes, Chimichurri sauce can be frozen. Store it in an airtight container or ice cube trays for up to three months. Defrost it in the refrigerator before using it as a pizza sauce or for other dishes.
8. Is Chimichurri sauce spicy?
Chimichurri can be spicy if made with fresh red chili or chili powder. You can adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the amount of chili based on your preference.
9. Can Chimichurri sauce be used for something other than pizza?
Absolutely! Chimichurri is versatile and can be used as a marinade for meats, a dipping sauce for bread, or a dressing for grilled vegetables and salads.
10. Do I need a food processor to make Chimichurri sauce?
No, a food processor isn’t necessary. You can finely chop all the ingredients by hand for a more traditional and rustic texture. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can pulse the ingredients in a food processor briefly.
This Chimichurri Pizza Sauce is a refreshing alternative to the classic red sauce, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your homemade pizzas.
Whether you’re topping off a veggie pizza or pairing it with a protein-packed pie, the herby, garlicky goodness of this sauce is sure to become a new favorite!
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