How Long Does Chimichurri Last? Does It Go Bad?

Chimichurri is a sauce that originates from Argentina, typically used as a condiment or marinade for meats and veggies.

But how long does this savory sauce last? And does it have a shelf life?

Chimichurri sauce can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer. Once opened, consume within seven days for the best flavor and quality. To ensure proper storage, keep it in a sealed container in the refrigerator, or freeze for long-term storage.

In this article, we will explore the factors that affect the longevity of chimichurri, the ways to tell if it has gone bad, and how to store it properly.

What is Chimichurri?

Chimichurri is a sauce that originally comes from Argentina, usually made from a blend of parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, olive oil, and vinegar.

It is an excellent accompaniment to all types of grilled meats and veggies, and can also be used as a marinade or a salad dressing.

The endless possibilities of uses of chimichurri make it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.

How Long Does Chimichurri Last? Does Chimichurri Go Bad?

As with any food, chimichurri does have a shelf life and can go bad over time. The factors that impact how long chimichurri lasts include the environment it is stored in, whether or not it has been opened, and the ingredients used in the sauce.

Opened Bottle

Once you have opened a jar of chimichurri, you should consume it within seven days for the best flavor and quality. After that, it will start to break down, and the ingredients will lose their effectiveness.

Unopened Bottle

If you haven’t opened the bottle yet, you can store the chimichurri on your pantry shelf for up to two weeks.

Once you open the bottle, make sure to store it in the refrigerator and consume it within seven days.

Storage Environment

The environment in which you store your chimichurri can significantly affect how long it lasts.

If you keep it in a cool, dark place, like a pantry cupboard, you can expect it to last for up to two weeks after opening it.

Refrigerating your chimichurri sauce can extend its life for an additional week after opening, but not beyond that.

Freezing

Chimichurri can be frozen to prolong its life for up to three months. However, the texture and flavor of the sauce may change once it is thawed.

As a result, it might be best to freeze small portions of chimichurri so you can defrost one or two servings easily.

How to Tell If Chimichurri Has Gone Bad?

Chimichurri sauce contains fresh herbs and spices, which makes it prone to spoilage. Some of the ways to tell if the sauce has gone bad are as follows:

Discoloration

If the chimichurri sauce begins to discolor, it is a sign that it has started to break down, and its ingredients are no longer fresh.

Foul Smell

The primary indicator of an expired chimichurri sauce is a sour or rancid smell, which is usually accompanied by mold growth.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to throw the sauce away and make a new batch from scratch.

Weird Texture

Lumpy or slimy texture is a sign of spoilage and can indicate that bacteria or mold has begun to grow on the sauce.

If the texture looks different from when you first opened the jar, it’s time to get rid of it.

How to Store Chimichurri?

Keep It Sealed

Make sure to seal the jar of chimichurri firmly once you have opened it.

Store it in an airtight container to keep air from entering and bacteria from growing.

Keep It Cool

Chimichurri sauce should be stored in a cool and dark place, like your pantry cupboard.

If you prefer to store it in the refrigerator, make sure it’s in the door’s coldest part or the back of the shelf.

Avoid storing it in a warm place or near sources of heat that could spoil the sauce quickly.

Freeze It

If you’ve made too much sauce and realize that you won’t use it all up within a week, freezing it can be a good option.

Pour the chimichurri into a freezer-safe container, leaving some room at the top to allow for expansion.

Label the container with the date, so you know how long it has been in the freezer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, chimichurri sauce has a shelf life and can go bad over time. However, proper storage can help prolong its shelf life. In summary:

• Once opened, consume within seven days for the best flavor and quality.
• Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator, or freeze for long-term storage for up to three months.
• Discard any sauce that has gone bad.
• Keep the sauce cool, dark, and away from direct sunlight.

Chimichurri sauce is a delicious and versatile condiment that can elevate any dish’s flavor, and with proper storage, you can enjoy it for an extended period.