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Cilantro Pesto
Unleash a burst of vibrant flavors with this Cilantro Pesto, a delightful twist on the traditional basil version. This zesty green sauce is packed with the refreshing taste of fresh cilantro, aromatic garlic, and nutty pine nuts, creating a symphony of flavors that elevate any dish. Perfect for tossing with pasta, drizzling over grilled meats, or slathering on crusty bread, this pesto is a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Originating from the Italian region of Liguria, pesto has traveled the world, inspiring countless variations—this cilantro rendition celebrates the herb's bright character while paying homage to the original. Use it to transform your meals into unforgettable experiences!
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
- 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.
- Pulse the mixture until the ingredients are well blended and resemble a coarse paste.
- 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.
- Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.
- 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.
- 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!
Tips
- For a nuttier flavor, try substituting the pine nuts with walnuts or almonds.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
- This pesto can also be frozen in ice cube trays for easy portioning later on.
Dietary Information
Servings: 8 Dish Type: Sauce/Dip Prep Time: 10 minutes Calories: 120 Fat: 12g Carbs: 2g Protein: 3g Sodium: 200mg Sugar: 0g
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