Spicy Cilantro Almond Pesto opens in a new tab
Cilantro is the bright green leaves of the coriander plant, the same plant that produces little seeds also called coriander. It has an unmistakable pungent fragrance and distinct flavor that lends itself to spiced foods from around the world. I learned to love it in Indian dishes I sampled in Bombay, Asian favorites in Honolulu, and TexMex recipes in Austin, Texas.
Cilantro is available year-round usually in bunches. The leaves should be green with no yellowing, browning or wilting. Store it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Wash well and pat dry before using. Be sure to wash only as much as you will need.
Black Bean Salad with Avocado Lime Dressing opens in a new tab
Although cilantro can be used alongside of, or in place of parsley, and it is similar in appearance, one smell will tell you the difference! Cilantro can be an acquired taste for some, but the more you eat irresistible treats such as Black Bean and Cilantro Quesadillas opens in a new tab, Salmon with Cilantro Pumpkin Seed Pesto opens in a new tab and Cilantro Chutney opens in a new tab, the more it grows on you. You’ll love it in sauces and salsas, spreads and dips, salads and dressings and as a garnish to a wide assortment of foods. Here are some ideas and recipes:
Add to pesto sauce. Use Spicy Cilantro Almond Pesto opens in a new tab as a garnish for soups or dollop a bit over grains or grain salads. Try it with this Mexican Red Lentil Soup opens in a new tab.
Grilled Squash with Cilantro-Pecan Pesto opens in a new tab makes a wonderful side dish to grilled meats, fish, tofu or tempeh.
Add to salads of all sorts — vegetable, leafy green, bean, potato, egg, chicken or tuna. Carrot, Red Onion and Cilantro Salad opens in a new tab is one of my favorites. Black Bean Salad with Avocado Lime Dressing opens in a new tab is a mouthful of delicious tomatoes, lime and corn with avocado.
Fish and cilantro belong together. Red Snapper with Cilantro Butter opens in a new tab is tasty and easy. (You’ll want to use that cilantro butter melted over other fish like salmon or halibut, or potatoes, yams and steamed vegetables too.) If you’re a lobster fan, be sure to try Baked Lobster with Cilantro-Orange Vinaigrette opens in a new tab. Pineapple and Cilantro Baked Salmon opens in a new tab combines pineapple juice, miso, cilantro, jalapeño peppers and spices to make a delicious and simple meal. Serve with rice or noodles and a green vegetable. Poached Halibut with Ginger and Cilantro opens in a new tab is flavored with white wine, ginger and tamari.
Mash avocado with chopped chives and cilantro, sea salt and pepper. Use as a sandwich spread. Add cheese, turkey or hummus, if desired.
Try Avocado Salsa with Olives and Cilantro opens in a new tab next time you serve chips, corn tortillas, baked potatoes or chili.
If you like the heat of chiles, our Spicy Tomato Salsa with Cilantro and Chiles opens in a new tab will hit the spot.
Add cilantro to any favorite salsa recipe, and for fresh flavor, add chopped cilantro to pre-packaged or jarred salsa.
Chop and blend into bean dips, hummus, mayonnaise, salad dressings and more.
Poached Halibut with Ginger and Cilantro opens in a new tab
Do you cook with cilantro? Got a favorite recipe or a great idea? Let me know.
