Nut-Free Cilantro Pesto
Brighten up your meals with this Nut-Free Cilantro Pesto—an easy, vibrant sauce packed with fresh flavor! Perfect for those with nut allergies, this quick recipe swaps traditional pine nuts for a zesty blend of fresh cilantro, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice. The rich extra virgin olive oil ties it all together, creating a smooth, herbaceous pesto in just 10 minutes. Customize the consistency with a touch of water, and use it to elevate pasta, grilled vegetables, or even as a spread for sandwiches. Gluten-free and bursting with bold flavors, this cilantro-forward twist on the classic pesto is a fresh, versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.
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Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh cilantro leaves
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 Garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 0.5 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper, freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons Water
Directions
Step 1
1. Rinse the cilantro thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt and dry completely using a salad spinner or a clean kitchen towel.
Step 2
2. In a food processor, combine the cilantro leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, and peeled garlic cloves. Blend for about 10 seconds until the mixture is finely chopped.
Step 3
3. Add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the food processor. Blend for another 5 seconds until well combined.
Step 4
4. With the food processor running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Continue to blend until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency.
Step 5
5. If the pesto is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time and pulse until achieving the desired consistency.
Step 6
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if needed.
Step 7
7. Transfer the cilantro pesto to an airtight container and refrigerate if not using immediately. Properly stored, it will last up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (709.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1190.7 |
| Total Fat 129.4g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 24.0g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g | |
| Cholesterol 40mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1968.9mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 9.8g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 5.8g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 0.8g | |
| Protein 21.9g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 669.8mg | 0% |
| Iron 5.6mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1128.5mg | 0% |
Source of Calories