Fabulous Cilantro Pesto – Fresh, Zesty & Bursting with Flavour
This Fabulous Cilantro Pesto is a fresh, zesty sauce made with cilantro, garlic, nuts, olive oil, and cheese. It’s quick to prepare and incredibly versatile. The flavor is bright, slightly tangy, and herbaceous. Perfect as a pasta sauce, spread, or marinade. Easy to customize with different nuts or add-ins. A refreshing alternative to traditional pesto that adds bold flavor to any dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
- 2 cloves garlic
- ¼ cup nuts (pine nuts, almonds, or walnuts)
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1–2 tbsp lemon or lime juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 small green chili (optional for heat)
Instructions
- Add cilantro, garlic, and nuts to a food processor or blender.
- Pulse until roughly chopped.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth.
- Add Parmesan cheese and citrus juice.
- Blend again until creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Adjust consistency with more oil if needed.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Use fresh, bright green cilantro for best flavor.
- Lemon or lime juice enhances freshness.
- Adjust garlic to your preference.
- Nuts can be substituted based on availability.
- Cheese adds richness but can be skipped for vegan version.
- Store with a thin oil layer on top to prevent browning.
- Blend to desired texture—smooth or slightly coarse.
- Best used fresh for maximum flavor.