Cilantro Pesto Recipe: A Burst of Flavor in Just 15 Minutes
When it comes to enhancing your pasta dishes with a fresh and vibrant twist, this Cilantro Pesto stands out as an exceptional choice. With its lively flavor profile derived from fresh cilantro, mild green chili, and the tanginess of lime juice, this pesto not only adds a unique taste but also elevates the aroma of your meals. Perfectly paired with grilled asparagus and any kind of pasta, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly quick to prepare, making it a delightful option for busy weeknights. Plus, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy its refreshing taste multiple times.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving (4 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 662.1 |
| Total Fat | 69.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 11 mg |
| Sodium | 884.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 5.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.3 g |
| Sugars | 1.5 g |
| Protein | 8.5 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mild green chili | 1 |
| Pine nuts | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Lime juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh cilantro | 8 ounces |
| Olive oil | 1 cup |
Instructions
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by gathering all the ingredients listed above. Make sure your cilantro is fresh, as it will be the star of this pesto.
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Blend the Base: In a food processor, combine the mild green chili, pine nuts, garlic, lime juice, salt, and Parmesan cheese. Set the processor to pulse and blend these ingredients for approximately five seconds. This initial blending will chop everything into a rough mixture.
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Incorporate the Cilantro: Add half of the chopped cilantro to the processor. Blend for a few seconds until it’s incorporated into the mixture.
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Finish Blending: Scrape down the sides of the food processor bowl to ensure everything is well combined. Add the remaining half of the cilantro and blend again, this time gradually drizzling in the olive oil from the top of the processor. This technique allows the oil to emulsify with the other ingredients, creating a smooth, thick paste.
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Achieve Desired Consistency: Continue to blend until the mixture reaches your desired consistency. You can adjust the thickness by adding more olive oil if necessary.
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Taste and Adjust: After blending, taste the pesto and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or lime juice to suit your preference.
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Serve or Store: This vibrant cilantro pesto can be served immediately with your choice of pasta, garnished with grilled asparagus for a delightful presentation. Alternatively, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for up to a week.
Enjoy Your Culinary Creation!
This Cilantro Pesto is not just a quick and easy recipe; it’s a flavorful way to infuse your meals with the bright, herbaceous notes of fresh cilantro. Perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy family dinner, this pesto is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, bringing a little zest and joy to your dining table. Enjoy the delightful experience of crafting this beautiful sauce that not only tastes amazing but is also packed with fresh ingredients and nutrition.
