Green chimichurri is a vibrant sauce made with fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and oil. Just one tablespoon (15 ml) packs only 20 calories, making it a flavorful and low-calorie addition to meals. If you're looking to add some zing to your dishes without adding extra calories, green chimichurri is a perfect choice.

In addition to being low in calories, green chimichurri is packed with flavor and nutrition. It's a great source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can help support your overall health. Plus, it's versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, from marinades to dips to toppings for meats and veggies.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about green chimichurri, from its ingredients and benefits to how to make it at home and where to buy it.

What is Green Chimichurri?

Green chimichurri is a sauce that originated in Argentina and is typically served with grilled meats. It's made with fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil, and sometimes includes additional spices like oregano and red pepper flakes. The result is a bright green sauce that's full of flavor and nutrition. While green chimichurri is traditionally associated with Argentine cuisine, it's now popular around the world and can be used in a variety of ways. Whether you're looking to add some extra flavor to your grilled steak, dress up your roasted veggies, or add a tangy kick to your dips and spreads, green chimichurri is a versatile and delicious choice.

Calorie Content of Green Chimichurri

Green chimichurri is a low-calorie sauce, with just one tablespoon (15 ml) containing only 20 calories. This makes it a great option for those looking to add flavor to their meals without packing on extra calories. In addition to its low calorie content, green chimichurri is also full of nutrition. The fresh herbs and garlic provide a boost of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, while the olive oil is a great source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

Green Chimichurri Ingredients

Green chimichurri is made with fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and oil. The most common herbs used in green chimichurri are parsley and cilantro, but oregano and thyme are sometimes added for extra flavor. Some recipes also include red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick. To make green chimichurri, you'll need the following ingredients: -1 cup fresh parsley leaves -½ cup fresh cilantro leaves -3 cloves garlic, minced -¼ cup red wine vinegar -¼ cup olive oil -1 tsp salt -½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Use Green Chimichurri

Green chimichurri is a versatile sauce that can be used in many different ways. Some common uses include: -As a marinade for meats: Coat your favorite cuts of steak, chicken, or pork with green chimichurri and let them marinate for several hours before grilling or roasting. -As a salad dressing: Mix green chimichurri with some lemon juice and olive oil to make a flavorful and healthy salad dressing. -As a dipping sauce: Serve green chimichurri alongside roasted veggies or crusty bread for a tangy and tasty dip. -As a topping for eggs: Spoon green chimichurri over your morning eggs for a burst of flavor.

Green Chimichurri Benefits

Green chimichurri is not only delicious, but it's also packed with nutrition. The fresh herbs and garlic provide a variety of health benefits, including: -Antioxidants: Parsley and cilantro are both rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against cellular damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. -Anti-inflammatory compounds: Garlic contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and lower the risk of chronic diseases. -Heart-healthy fats: Olive oil is a great source of monounsaturated fats, which can help improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Green Chimichurri vs Other Sauces

While green chimichurri is a unique and flavorful sauce, it's not the only sauce out there. Here's how it compares to some other popular sauces: -Soy sauce: While soy sauce is a staple in many Asian cuisines, it's high in sodium and typically contains added sugar. Green chimichurri, on the other hand, is low in sodium and calories and contains no added sugars. -Barbecue sauce: Barbecue sauce is often high in sugar and calories, and some brands contain high fructose corn syrup. Green chimichurri is a much healthier option, as it's low in sugar and calories and full of fresh herbs and spices. -Ketchup: Ketchup is often high in sugar and sodium, and most brands contain preservatives and additives. Green chimichurri is a much more natural and nutritious option.

Is Green Chimichurri Healthy?

Green chimichurri is not only healthy, but it's also a nutritious addition to any meal. It's low in calories and fat, but high in flavor and nutrition, thanks to the fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil. Adding green chimichurri to your meals can provide a variety of health benefits, including improved antioxidant status, reduced inflammation, and improved heart health.

How to Make Green Chimichurri at Home

If you want to make your own green chimichurri at home, it's easy and requires just a few ingredients. Here's a simple recipe to get you started: -1 cup fresh parsley leaves -½ cup fresh cilantro leaves -3 cloves garlic, minced -¼ cup red wine vinegar -¼ cup olive oil -1 tsp salt -½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) 1. In a food processor, pulse the parsley and cilantro until finely chopped. 2. Add the garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using) and pulse until everything is well combined. 3. Transfer the green chimichurri to a jar or container and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Where to Buy Green Chimichurri

Green chimichurri is available at many grocery stores and specialty food shops. Look for it in the international foods section or with the condiments and sauces. You can also find green chimichurri online or try your hand at making your own at home.

Green Chimichurri Serving Size

One tablespoon (15 ml) is the recommended serving size for green chimichurri. This contains just 20 calories and is enough to add flavor and nutrition to your meals without adding extra calories. However, you can adjust the serving size based on your preferences and the recipe you're using it in.