Cilantro Pesto

Ingredients

Fresh cilantro

2 cups, packed

Garlic

2 cloves, peeled

Pine nuts

1/4 cup, toasted

Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup, grated

Lemon juice

2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed

Extra virgin olive oil

1/2 cup

Salt

1/2 teaspoon

Black pepper

1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground

Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine the packed cilantro leaves, peeled garlic cloves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pulse the mixture until the ingredients are well blended and resemble a coarse paste.
3. While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the pesto achieves a smooth and creamy consistency. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even blending.
4. Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.
5. Transfer the cilantro pesto to a clean jar or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. This pesto can be kept for up to a week.
6. Serve your cilantro pesto as a dip, toss it with cooked pasta, drizzle it over grilled vegetables, or use it as a marinade for meats. The possibilities are endless!