Pies and Plots

Writing Never Tasted So Sweet

  • Home
  • About
  • Recipes
  • Press
  • Contact
  • Books

Chimichurri

October 16, 2012

Share
Pin
Tweet
Email
Print
Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Chimichurri

I am trying to claim my blog with Technorati to build my audience, and I had to include a claim code in a post, so here it is: YSB6SVSFW6U7  On to your regularly scheduled blog post.

It was one year ago today that I sprained my ankle.  It was before my blogging days but now a full 365 days later, I still think about it every day.  I’d like to tell you some glamorous story of how I did it, but there isn’t one.  I missed the last step on the staircase in our house.  A staircase I’ve walked up and down thousands upon thousands of times over the years.  A momentary lapse in concentration left me on the floor.  For the most part I walked it off.  It hurt for a few minutes, but then the pain subsided almost entirely.

However, the swelling and bruising only grew worse.  The bruise was various gnarly colors running from mid-calf to down and around my entire ankle and foot and lasted for several weeks.  The swelling was concentrated to the area, but was bad; it decreased gradually but wasn’t back normal for at least a couple of months.

A misguided trip to an urgent care center just to make sure everything was okay ended with the doctor telling me it was broken and wrapping it in some sort of strange material, handing me a prescription for crutches.  I’d never cried so hard in my life.  And the doctor, she pretending like it wasn’t even happening.

Parsley and Garlic

Being the excellent patient I am, I went home and immediately removed the wrap she’d placed around my ankle and forgot about the crutches.  That wasn’t happening.  There would be no cast on my leg; I couldn’t deal with that.  After several phone calls and arguing with the front desk staff at two separate orthopedic doctors’ offices, we finally got in the next day, tears still flowing freely, particularly anytime my injury was mentioned, my body shaking with nerves.  The doctor was nice and said yes there was an evulsion fracture, but it was basically just a sprain.  I should wear a brace when I exercised, which I could return to in a week, and as long as I felt comfortable, I could return to wearing my high heels, particularly to an event the following week.  I think I let out the deepest sigh of relief in history along with a vow never to go that urgent care again.

I know what you’re thinking.  Why am I telling you this?  I was pretty much fine instantly.  And I was.  The pain was always minimal if there at all.  The place of the fracture was tender for months, but as long as it was avoided, I was fine.  The brace was uncomfortable, but I grew accustomed to it and it became my crutch, my safety net, as I wore it a little longer than I even should have.  It was the psychological damage the injury caused that I still deal with.  When most people would’ve forgotten about it a couple weeks later, I couldn’t shake it.

It made me afraid, still refusing to bound down the stairs like I used to.  I worry each ache and pain I feel is a stress fracture, torn ACL, some debilitating injury that will require surgery, physical therapy, an end to my love of exercise, leaving me trapped in the house, no desire to go anywhere.  Pain in my ankles, legs, and hips can overtake any other thoughts I have.  I hope constantly that the aches and pains are normal and will subside.

Chimichurri

I walk differently.  I can feel it and can’t figure out how or why.  I limped for months every time I wore heels with no medical explanation.  For the most part that has ended, but sometimes that limp comes back and it’s scary hard to shake.  I eat differently.  Red meat is a rare treat that I almost never crave, crunchy foods sound good only on occasion, and I eat much lighter than I used to.  I also exercise differently.  My running is back to full capacity, but my time with Nintendo Wii’s Active Life Outdoor Challenge has shortened but become more intense.  I used to run barefoot, as I only run in the house, and while it’s something I’d love to get back to, I don’t know if I can find the courage.  I stopped lifting weights and enjoy my workout time just a little less most days, terrified of incurring another injury.

But I go on.  I still work out and have fun and try to push the memories of that day and those following it out of my mind, as hard as I find it to be.  I try to trust my body that it’s strong enough to handle all I throw at it and even more, and more than anything I try to be brave.  If you’ve ever suffered and injury, I hope you have healed too.  I’d love to hear your story in the comments below.

Onto this Chimichurri Sauce.  It’s a brave sauce that packs a powerful punch.  The flavors are bold and acidic and complement red meat perfectly.  I had one of those rare red meat cravings recently.  So easy to put together, it’s best after the flavors have had some time to marry.  The herb-y freshness from parsley, a little spice from red pepper flake, acid from apple cider vinegar, and a hint of richness from olive oil, make this sauce a huge hit in my house.  This super Latin condiment will bring out the best flavors the next time you have a hearty steak.  And even if it doesn’t heal your injuries, it might just make you feel a little better.

Chimichurri

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chimichurri


★★★★★

5 from 2 reviews

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: Varies
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ cup parsley leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. After you have measured the parsley, chop it relatively finely. Place it in a medium bowl, along with the garlic. Add the vinegar, oil, and peppers. Stir to combine. Allow to sit at room temperature for about 1 hour to let the flavors combine. May be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 mins

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @piesandplots on Instagram

 

Filed Under: Savory Tagged With: Condiment, Dinner, Garlic, Herbs, Olive Oil, Parsley, Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes, Sauce, Savory, Vinegar

Don’t Miss a Bite!

« Apple Cinnamon Cookies
Vanilla Pudding Candy Corn Oreo Parfaits »

Comments

  1. Sydney @ Crepes of Wrath says

    October 16, 2012 at 3:04 pm

    First, let me say that I adore chimichurri. It makes for a great addition to any roasted or grilled meats, but I especially love to use it as a marinade. I remember once putting chimichurri on ground turkey sloppy joes and loving it.

    Secondly, I have two very bad knees. My doctor(s) have told me that I need to wear braces when I work out, which I do, but that I should also avoid jumping, lunges, running, etc. How in the world am I supposed to work out without doing those things? My grandmother has had knee replacements, my mother gets steroid shots periodically to deal with the pain and will have to get a replacement soon, so I know it’s inevitable. Sometimes I worry that I am going to push myself too far and screw up my knees earlier than I had anticipated…but what can ya’ do? I just try to be somewhat careful, be aware of my limitations, and not worry about it. I hope you can do that, too!

    Reply
    • Laura says

      October 16, 2012 at 3:31 pm

      Ohh, I will have to try Chimichurri as a marinade. I bet it imparts great flavor.

      Thanks for sharing your story about your knee problems, Sydney. It’s great that you keep going and working out despite the obstacles. I will definitely keep your perseverance in mind the next time the worries about injuries get to me 🙂

      Reply
  2. Rick says

    October 17, 2012 at 1:00 pm

    Several years ago I slipped and fell in a snowy parking lot. My left leg folded and I landed on top of it. I have never experienced such pain before. It took me several minutes to even get up. After the swelling went down it was fine for a while. Now it is starting to become sore and gives me problems climbing steps.

    Reply
    • Laura says

      October 17, 2012 at 3:52 pm

      I’m so sorry about your injury. That’s so horrible. Hopefully the pain will go away again; sometimes I think pain cycles in and out.

      Reply
  3. Joanna says

    October 17, 2012 at 2:22 pm

    Many years ago I was in a car accident. I cracked my hip, had a few cracked ribs and bumps and bruises everywhere. I was in so much pain and I thought I would never get better, it took a while, but I did. Try not to worry so much and try to enjoy your life!

    The Chimichurri was great. I loved it on the steak. So fresh!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Laura says

      October 17, 2012 at 3:51 pm

      Thanks for sharing your story! It’s horrible that you experienced so much pain, but great that you made a full recovery 🙂

      Reply
  4. Angela says

    October 18, 2012 at 3:38 pm

    Well I went here for the chimichurri (which I adore), but I have to say I can really relate to your experience. I had a similar experience with my right arm, and it is amazing how scary it is to suddenly have to watch everything you do–you really start to realize how much you take basic things for granted. Glad you are recovered!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Laura says

      October 19, 2012 at 3:10 pm

      It is very scary that life can change in an instant. The smallest thing can make everything so much harder. I hope your arm is better! Thanks for sharing your story, Angela, and thanks for visiting 🙂

      Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Live with Regis and Laura | Pies and Plots says:
    November 3, 2012 at 1:53 pm

    […] up.  My parents and our friend Linda joined me for a super fun evening.  I went again last year, sprained ankle and all, still rocking heels, with Mom and another friend, Kelly, and just a couple months after […]

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆

  • Bloglovin
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Welcome to Pies and Plots. I’m Laura Dembowski, writer, baker, and fashionista sharing recipes, reviews, and tips to inspire you to enjoy life both inside and outside the kitchen.
…Read More

Pre-Order My First Book!

Don’t Miss a Bite!

my foodgawker gallery
TODAY.com Parenting Team FC Contributor

The Latest

Categories

piesandplots

Fashion 👡 👗Florida ☀️🌴 Fiction 🖋📚 Food 🎂🥩
Cause of Death is available now! 🥳
#ootdshare #floridavibes #amwriting #bakersofinstagram

Laura Dembowski
Merry Christmas from my family to yours 🎄 ⛄️❤💚❤

#merrychristmas #christmasvibes #christmastree #christmasdecorations #christmastime #christmasfashion #holidayseason #holidayvibes #holidayspirit #holidayfashion #familytime #familyphotography #familygoals #familyisforever #rcmemories #ritzcarlton #ritzcarltonorlando #ootdshare #ootdfashion #strikeapose #model #floridaholiday #floridachristmas #orlandoinfluencer #orlandofl #thecitybeautiful #tistheseason #tisthedamnseason #blondehairdontcare #lookgoodfeelgood
I'm loving wearing metallics this holiday season 💖💖💖 They bring that Christmas vibe but in a more sophisticated, subtle way. The details for this outfit are on the blog, and I'll have a new post with more gold and silver tomorrow ✨️ 💛 

#ontheblog #linkinprofile #fashiondiaries #fashionista #fashionnova #fashionstyle #ootdshare #christmasvibes #christmastime #christmasfashion #holidayvibes #holidayseason #holidayspirit #metallicdress #golddress #oscardelarenta #blondehairdontcare #cheerstolife #cheersyall #redlipclassic #redlips #floridaholiday #orlandoinfluencer #orlandofl #floridagirl #thecitybeautiful #rcmemories #ritzcarltonorlando #ritzcarlton #happygirl
Currently craving a giant slice of this Espresso V Currently craving a giant slice of this Espresso Vanilla Bean Tiramisu Cake. Then again, when am I not craving it??? This cake has all the flavors of tiramisu and is covered in a drippy glaze that packs a second kick of coffee. So that means it's totally acceptable to eat this for breakfast, right??? ☕😋

#ontheblog #linkinprofile #cakecakecake #tiramisu #tiramisucake #imsomartha #thebakefeed #feedfeed #thekitchn #buzzfeedfood #huffposttaste #todayfood #yahoofood #bonappetit #cakeforbreakfast #breakfastofchampions #grainfree #christmasvibes #christmascake #christmasrecipe #comfortfood #butfirstcoffee #halfbakedharvest #coffeerecipes #coffeecake #glutenfree #vanillabean #tiramisurecipe #holidayrecipe
Champagne and caviar are a classic flavor combinat Champagne and caviar are a classic flavor combination, but they make a pretty awesome and festive fashion combination too. Navy and black dresses, paired with metallic accessories is an elegant yet updated holiday look. These outfit details are on the blog right now! 🥂

#ontheblog #linkinprofile #ootdshare #festivefashion #christmasoutfit #champagneandcaviar #holidayoutfit #christmasvibes #holidayvibes #fashioninspo #styleinspo #lookgoodfeelgood #festiveseason #metallicdress #lbd #lacedress #ladydiorbag #dressup #strikeapose #model #floridachristmas #floridaholidays #sunsetvibes #smize #thecitybeautiful #orlandoinfluencer #blondehairdontcare #cheersyall #merrychristmas
Cookie baking season is upon us 😋 While the cla Cookie baking season is upon us 😋 While the classics are always nice, it can be a lot of fun to play around with new flavor combinations like the ones in these Tahini Cookies studded with crunchy almonds and chewy raisins. Think of them like a peanut butter cookie's more sophisticated older sister 😎 And head over to the blog to snag the recipe 🍪

#ontheblog #linkinprofile #cookiemonster #cookiesofinstagram #cookiestagram #healthycookies #cookiesforbreakfast #tahinicookies #tahinirecipe #tahini #cookieseason #christmascookies #imsomartha #f52grams #foodgawker #huffposttaste #buzzfeedfood #todayfood #yahoofood #bonapetit #cookierecipe #paleocookies #christmasbaking #ambaking #holidaybaking #breakfastcookies #foodfluencer #uniquecookies #almondcookie
Ready to wear all the cozy clothes and festive col Ready to wear all the cozy clothes and festive colors 🎄💚

The details for this outfit are on the blog!

#ontheblog #linkinprofile #ootdshare #ootdfashion #fashionstyle #styleinspo #christmasoutfit #christmasvibes #holidayvibes #sweaterweather #cozyclothes #floridachristmas #floridaholiday #lookgoodfeeltgood #strikeapose #model #orlandoinfluencer #orlandofl #thecitybeautiful #blondehairdontcare #denimskirt #chunkysweater #smize #happygirl #positivevibes #inthespirit #tistheseason #tisthedamnseason #downtownorlando
Load More... Follow on Instagram
  • Bloglovin
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2023 · Pies and Plots · Web Design by Viva la Violet