Can You Make Chimichurri With Cilantro

Yes, you can make chimichurri with cilantro, and it turns out beautifully.
 
Traditional chimichurri relies on parsley, but cilantro works as a fantastic substitute or even a fifty-fifty blend.
 
If you’ve been asking yourself “can you make chimichurri with cilantro,” the short answer is absolutely yes.
 
It gives the sauce a brighter, zestier, and slightly more herbal punch.
 
In this post, we’ll look at why you can make chimichurri with cilantro, how to adjust the recipe so it tastes balanced, and a few tasty variations.
 
Let’s dive in.
 

Why You Can Make Chimichurri With Cilantro

You can make chimichurri with cilantro because the core of the sauce is all about fresh herbs, acid, oil, and garlic.
 
Cilantro fits right into that formula.
 

1. Cilantro Is a Fresh Herb Just Like Parsley

The classic chimichurri recipe calls for finely chopped parsley.
 
Cilantro is also a leafy green herb with a tender texture.
 
That means it blends, chops, and mixes exactly the same way.
 
So when you swap parsley for cilantro, the structure of the sauce stays perfect.
 

2. The Acid and Oil Balance Still Works

Chimichurri needs red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and a little spice.
 
Those ingredients don’t care whether the herb is parsley or cilantro.
 
The vinegar cuts through the oil, and the garlic adds a savory kick.
 
Cilantro’s citrusy notes actually pair even better with vinegar than parsley does.
 
That’s another reason you can make chimichurri with cilantro without any trouble.
 

3. Cilantro Adds a Distinct But Delicious Twist

Parsley is mild and grassy.
 
Cilantro is bold, peppery, and a little bit lemony.
 
When you make chimichurri with cilantro, you’re not ruining the sauce.
 
You’re creating a new version that’s perfect for tacos, grilled shrimp, or carne asada.
 
So yes, you can make chimichurri with cilantro and end up with something magical.
 

How to Make Chimichurri With Cilantro Taste Amazing

Knowing that you can make chimichurri with cilantro is one thing.
 
Making it taste balanced is another.
 
Here’s how to nail it.
 

1. Use Fresh Cilantro and Lots of It

Start with one packed cup of cilantro leaves and tender stems.
 
Don’t use dried cilantro because it loses all its flavor.
 
Wash and dry the leaves thoroughly so the sauce doesn’t get watery.
 
Then chop everything by hand for the best texture.
 
A food processor works, but pulse it gently or you’ll end up with a paste.
 

2. Balance the Acidity and Salt

Cilantro is bright, so you need enough acid to match it.
 
Use two tablespoons of red wine vinegar or lime juice.
 
Lime juice is a great choice when you make chimichurri with cilantro because the flavors are a natural match.
 
Add half a teaspoon of salt and taste.
 
You can always add more, but you can’t take it out.
 

3. Don’t Skip the Garlic and Chili

Three cloves of minced garlic give the sauce its backbone.
 
A pinch of red pepper flakes or a tiny chopped jalapeño adds heat.
 
Those strong flavors keep the cilantro from taking over completely.
 
So when you make chimichurri with cilantro, the garlic and chili keep everything in harmony.
 

4. Let It Sit Before Serving

After you mix everything, let the sauce rest for at least 20 minutes.
 
This gives the cilantro time to infuse the oil.
 
You can make chimichurri with cilantro ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days.
 
Just bring it to room temperature before you use it.
 

5. Adjust the Herb Ratio If You Want

If you’re not ready for a full cilantro swap, use half parsley and half cilantro.
 
That way you still get the classic chimichurri vibe with a cilantro twist.
 
You can make chimichurri with cilantro this way and please a crowd that’s split on the herb.
 
It’s a safe and delicious compromise.
 

Best Ways to Use Cilantro Chimichurri

Once you know you can make chimichurri with cilantro, you’ll want to put it on everything.
 
Here are the best pairings.
 

1. Grilled Meats and Seafood

Spoon it over steak, chicken, or pork chops.
 
It’s also incredible on grilled shrimp, salmon, or swordfish.
 
The cilantro cuts through the richness of the meat.
 

2. Tacos, Burritos, and Quesadillas

Drizzle it inside a taco or over a burrito bowl.
 
When you make chimichurri with cilantro, it basically becomes a taco sauce.
 
It’s way better than store-bought salsa.
 

3. Roasted Vegetables and Eggs

Spoon it over roasted potatoes, cauliflower, or carrots.
 
It’s also amazing on fried eggs or scrambled eggs.
 
You can make chimichurri with cilantro and use it as a breakfast condiment.
 

4. As a Marinade or Dressing

Thin it with extra oil and use it as a marinade for chicken or fish.
 
Or whisk it into a vinaigrette for salads.
 
The options are endless once you can make chimichurri with cilantro.
 

So, Can You Make Chimichurri With Cilantro?

Yes, you can make chimichurri with cilantro, and it’s a wonderful idea.
 
The sauce keeps its classic structure of herbs, acid, oil, and garlic.
 
Cilantro simply swaps in for parsley and adds a bright, citrusy kick.
 
Just balance the lime or vinegar, add plenty of garlic, and let it rest.
 
Whether you use all cilantro or a mix, you can make chimichurri with cilantro that tastes fresh and vibrant.
 
So go grab a bunch of cilantro and give it a try tonight.