Include in Print View:

Cilantro Pesto

Cilantro Pesto recipe image
This vibrant Cilantro Pesto is a zesty, aromatic alternative to traditional basil pesto, perfect for adding a burst of freshness to any meal. The blend of fresh cilantro and parsley creates a bright, grassy base, while toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch and richness. Sharp Parmesan cheese provides a savory depth that balances the herbal notes, and a touch of vegetable oil binds everything into a smooth, luxurious emulsion. It&# 226;€™s incredibly versatile: toss it with pasta, spread it on sandwiches, use it as a dip for chips, or drizzle it over grilled chicken or fish. This sauce comes together in minutes, making it an easy way to elevate simple ingredients into something special. Its clean, lively flavor profile makes it an ideal companion for summer salads, tacos, or as a finishing touch for roasted vegetables.
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4
Calories: 513.8
Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant Cilantro Pesto is a zesty, aromatic alternative to traditional basil pesto, perfect for adding a burst of freshness to any meal. The blend of fresh cilantro and parsley creates a bright, grassy base, while toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch and richness. Sharp Parmesan cheese provides a savory depth that balances the herbal notes, and a touch of vegetable oil binds everything into a smooth, luxurious emulsion. It&# 226;€™s incredibly versatile: toss it with pasta, spread it on sandwiches, use it as a dip for chips, or drizzle it over grilled chicken or fish. This sauce comes together in minutes, making it an easy way to elevate simple ingredients into something special. Its clean, lively flavor profile makes it an ideal companion for summer salads, tacos, or as a finishing touch for roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
  • 1 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro; Firm Packed
  • 1/2 cup Parsley; Firmly Packed
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
  • 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • 3 ea Cloves Garlic
  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts; 1 oz
Directions
  1. 1
    Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant, then let them cool slightly.
  2. 2
    Peel and roughly chop the garlic cloves.
  3. 3
    Place the fresh cilantro, parsley, cooled pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese into the bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel blade.
  4. 4
    Pulse the mixture a few times to chop the herbs and nuts coarsely.
  5. 5
    With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the vegetable oil through the feed tube until the mixture emulsifies into a smooth, creamy consistency.
  6. 6
    Add the salt and pulse briefly to incorporate. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. 7
    Transfer the pesto to an airtight container. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sauce to prevent browning, or drizzle a thin layer of oil on top.
  8. 8
    Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 513.8kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 39.1g61%
Saturated Fat 10.0g50%
Cholesterol 26.4mg9%
Sodium 1694.6mg71%
Total Carbohydrate 27.9g10%
Dietary Fiber 1.8g8%
Sugars 2.5g
Protein 15.4g31%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: cilantro, pesto, green sauce, herb sauce, pine nuts, parmesan, garlic, parsley, mexican, vegetarian, quick recipe, blender, food processor, pasta sauce, dip, fresh herbs, summer cooking, easy appetizer, condiment, flavor booster
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/cilantro-pesto-3/