Cilantro
Cilantro, also known as coriander or Chinese parsley, is a vibrant herb that can brighten up any dish with its fresh and citrusy flavor. This versatile herb is commonly used in cuisines around the world, adding a unique touch to salads, salsas, marinades, and curries. In this recipe, we'll explore how to make a delicious cilantro pesto that can elevate your pasta dishes, sandwiches, and grilled meats with its zesty kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Wash the cilantro thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Pat dry with paper towels and remove the stems, keeping just the leaves.
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In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.
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In a food processor, combine the fresh cilantro leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
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With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth paste. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed.
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Season the cilantro pesto with salt and pepper to taste, then add the lime juice. Blend until desired consistency is reached.
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Serve the cilantro pesto over cooked pasta, spread on sandwiches, drizzle over grilled chicken or fish, or mix into roasted vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 2 tablespoons- Calories
- 180 kcal
- Total Fat
- 18 g
- Saturated Fat
- 3 g
- Cholesterol
- 7 mg
- Sodium
- 150 mg
- Total Carbohydrate
- 3 g
- Dietary Fiber
- 1 g
- Sugars
- 0.5 g
- Protein
- 4 g
Whether you're looking to liven up your weeknight meals or impress guests at a dinner party, this cilantro pesto is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Experiment with different variations by adding in other herbs like parsley or basil, adjusting the level of spiciness with more red pepper flakes, or incorporating nuts like almonds or walnuts for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless when it comes to using this bright and herbaceous condiment. Give it a try and watch how it transforms your dishes into culinary delights that will have everyone asking for the recipe.