Discover the vibrant flavors of Chermoula, a versatile marinade made from fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and a blend of spices. Perfect for enhancing the taste of fish or meat, this Chermoula recipe will elevate your dishes with its aromatic and zesty profile. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it's a must-try for anyone looking to add a Mediterranean twist to their cooking.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- Juice of 1 lemon

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

- 1/2 cup olive oil

- Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

 - In a bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, parsley, and minced garlic.

 - Add the lemon juice, ground cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.

 - Gradually whisk in the olive oil until the mixture is well combined and forms a smooth paste.

 - Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

 - Use the Chermoula marinade immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

To Use:

- For fish: Marinate the fish for at least 30 minutes before grilling or baking.

- For meat: Marinate the meat for at least 2 hours or overnight for a deeper flavor.

Enjoy the aromatic, zesty kick that Chermoula brings to your meals!

Nutritional Values

1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  - Calories: About 23 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 4 grams

  - Fat: 0.5 grams

  - Protein: 2 grams

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and provides antioxidants and essential oils.

1 cup fresh parsley, chopped

  - Calories: About 36 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 6 grams

  - Fat: 0.8 grams

  - Protein: 3 grams

Benefits: Excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, and provides iron and antioxidants.

4 cloves garlic, minced

  - Calories: About 5 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0.2 grams

Benefits: Contains allicin, which has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

Juice of 1 lemon

  - Calories: About 29 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 9 grams

  - Fat: 0.3 grams

  - Protein: 1 gram

Benefits: High in vitamin C, enhances flavor, and provides antioxidants.

1 teaspoon ground cumin

  - Calories: About 8 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

  - Fat: 0.5 grams

  - Protein: 0.3 grams

Benefits: Adds flavor and aids digestion.

1 teaspoon paprika

  - Calories: About 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

  - Fat: 0.3 grams

  - Protein: 0.3 grams

Benefits: Adds color and flavor, and contains antioxidants.

1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

  - Calories: About 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

  - Fat: 0.3 grams

  - Protein: 0.2 grams

Benefits: Adds a subtle citrus flavor and aids in digestion.

1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

  - Calories: About 8 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1.8 grams

  - Fat: 0.2 grams

  - Protein: 0.2 grams

Benefits: Contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

  - Calories: About 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

  - Fat: 0.3 grams

  - Protein: 0.3 grams

Benefits: Adds heat and contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism.

1/2 cup olive oil

  - Calories: About 120 kcal

  - Fat: 14 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Provides healthy fats, enhances flavor, and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Salt and black pepper to taste

Benefits: Enhances flavor; use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

This combination creates a flavorful and aromatic sauce or marinade that's rich in herbs and spices, adding depth to dishes.