Pizza Sauce Recipe Using Chimichurri Sauce: A Fusion of Flavors

A unique fusion of traditional pizza sauce and Argentinian chimichurri, perfect for enhancing pizza with bold, fresh flavors. Try this recipe to bring a new twist to your homemade pizza game!

Introduction

Pizza is a dish that can be endlessly reinvented, and chimichurri—a traditional Argentinian sauce—provides the perfect opportunity to do just that. By blending the rich, tangy herbs of chimichurri with the tomato base of a traditional pizza sauce, you create a unique fusion that brings a burst of flavor to your favorite pizza.

Chimichurri sauce, which typically consists of parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar, is often paired with grilled meats, especially in Argentinian cuisine. But its herbaceous qualities also make it a fantastic companion for a variety of other dishes, including pizza. This recipe introduces a herb-forward pizza sauce that blends chimichurri with classic pizza elements, making it a perfect option for those who want to try something new.

Want to learn more about the origins of chimichurri? The Spruce Eats provides a detailed account of its historical roots in South American cuisine. Combining this sauce with a homemade pizza dough elevates your pizza night to new heights. For the perfect base, King Arthur Baking offers an excellent guide to making homemade dough.

Key Ingredients (Exact Measurements)

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh parsley
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pizza Sauce:

• 1 cup tomato paste or tomato puree
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

Possible Substitutions:

• Substitute parsley with cilantro for a more citrus-forward chimichurri.
• For those on a gluten-free diet, use a gluten-free pizza base.

This recipe is flexible enough to accommodate different dietary preferences, so feel free to experiment with other herbs, oils, or even add some lemon zest for a burst of citrus flavor.

Equipment Needed

• Food processor or blender
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pizza stone or baking tray
• Oven or pizza oven
• Sharp knife

Each piece of equipment is essential for creating the perfect pizza sauce, ensuring that your ingredients are well mixed and that your pizza base is crispy yet soft on the inside.

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes

This recipe is designed to be quick and efficient, perfect for busy weeknights or for impressing guests at a dinner party.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Pre-preparation:

1. Prepare the chimichurri sauce by combining parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, red pepper flakes, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender. Pulse until the sauce has a chunky consistency but is well-blended.
2. Set aside your chimichurri sauce for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking:

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the tomato paste, dried basil, dried thyme, and sugar (if using). Mix thoroughly until smooth.
2. Gradually incorporate the chimichurri sauce into the tomato mixture, tasting as you go. Adjust the ratio depending on how strong you want the chimichurri flavor to be in your pizza sauce. A 50/50 blend works for most people, but you can adjust to your preference.
3. Spread the sauce evenly over your prepared pizza dough. Make sure to leave some room at the edges for the crust.

Post-processing:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (or 230°C). Place your pizza on a pizza stone or baking tray and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
2. Once your pizza is done baking, allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This will help the flavors settle and make it easier to cut the pizza without the toppings sliding off.

Tips and Tricks

• Add extra heat: If you like your pizza spicy, throw in extra red pepper flakes into the chimichurri sauce or drizzle some hot sauce before baking.
• For a creamier texture, consider adding a spoonful of cream or yogurt to the sauce, especially if you want a richer consistency.
• Use fresh herbs whenever possible to enhance the flavor of the chimichurri sauce.
• For a vegan option, make sure the pizza dough and cheese alternatives are dairy-free.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g

This recipe is not only flavorful but also relatively light in calories, making it a great option for those who want to enjoy pizza without feeling weighed down.

FAQs

1. What can you use chimichurri sauce on?

Chimichurri sauce pairs well with grilled meats, vegetables, and even eggs. It’s a versatile sauce that can also be used as a marinade.

2. Can you use any sauce as pizza sauce?

Technically, yes! But adjusting the seasoning is crucial. For example, chimichurri offers an herbaceous twist to traditional pizza sauce.

3. What can I use instead of pizza sauce?

You can use pesto, Alfredo sauce, BBQ sauce, or even a simple olive oil and garlic combination.

4. What’s the difference between pizza sauce and marinara sauce?

Pizza sauce is typically uncooked and thicker, while marinara sauce is simmered to develop deeper flavors and has a runnier consistency.

5. How do you turn marinara sauce into pizza sauce?

Simply reduce it on the stovetop to thicken it up, or add a little tomato paste.

6. What to do when you have no pizza sauce?

Don’t panic! You can use ingredients like chimichurri, olive oil and garlic, or even hummus for a different pizza experience.

7. Is there a sauce that makes everything taste like pizza?

Yes! Chimichurri pizza sauce has the robust and herby flavors that can give many dishes a pizza-like essence.

Serving Suggestions

• For an extra flavor kick, garnish your pizza with fresh arugula and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese right before serving.
• Pair your pizza with a simple mixed green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• This chimichurri pizza sauce also goes well with grilled meats or seafood if you want to turn your pizza into a more hearty meal.

Storage Instructions

• In the fridge: Store any leftover pizza sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• In the freezer: You can freeze portions of the pizza sauce for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so over low heat to avoid separating the oil from the other ingredients.
• Leftover pizza: Wrap individual slices in foil and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy crust, or in the microwave for a softer slice.

Conclusion

This chimichurri pizza sauce offers a fresh and exciting twist on traditional pizza, blending Argentinian and Italian flavors in a way that is sure to impress your taste buds. Whether you’re making it for yourself or for a group, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your household. Feel free to tweak the recipe according to your preferences, and don’t forget to share your results in the comments below!

Make this your next pizza night recipe and enjoy a new level of flavor. Happy cooking!