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Basil Chimichurri in a dish with a spoon
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Basil Chimichurri (Cilantro-Free)

This fresh basil chimichurri is a bright, herb-packed sauce made without cilantro. Basil and parsley combine with garlic, shallot, olive oil, and red wine vinegar for a vibrant condiment that’s perfect for grilled meats, vegetables, sandwiches, and grain bowls.
Course Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine Argentinian-Inspired
Diet Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Keyword basil chimichurri, basil sauce recipe, chimichurri without cilantro, cilantro free chimichurri, condiment recipe, fresh herb sauce, herb sauce, homemade chimichurri, parsley basil chimichurri, steak sauce
Prep Time 10 minutes
Rest Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 127kcal

Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Citrus zester (optional)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves packed
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley packed (flat-leaf preferred)
  • 3 –4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon shallot minced
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Zest of 1/2 lemon optional
  • 1 –2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice optional

Instructions

  • Finely chop the basil and parsley by hand for the best texture, or pulse briefly in a food processor without over-blending.
  • Add the herbs to a medium bowl along with the minced garlic and shallot.
  • Stir in the red wine vinegar, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
  • Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while stirring until the sauce reaches a loose, spoonable consistency.
  • Mix in the lemon zest and lemon juice, if using. Taste and adjust seasoning, acidity, or heat as desired.
  • Let the chimichurri rest for 15–20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Hand chopping gives the chimichurri a more traditional texture.
  • Flat-leaf parsley offers the best flavor and freshness.
  • Add extra olive oil if you prefer a thinner sauce.
  • The lemon zest brightens the sauce without overpowering the herbs.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 2tablespoons | Calories: 127kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Sodium: 151mg | Potassium: 50mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 516IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 1mg