Cilantro Lemon Pesto
Bright, zesty, and utterly versatile, this Cilantro Lemon Pesto is a fresh twist on the classic herb sauce that’s perfect for endlessly creative meals. Bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh cilantro, a hint of parsley for balance, and tangy lemon juice and zest, this recipe is elevated by the nuttiness of roasted cashews and the umami depth of Parmesan cheese. Garlic and a touch of red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat) round out its bold profile, while extra-virgin olive oil lends a silky texture. Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required, this pesto makes a flavor-packed topping for pasta, roasted veggies, grilled meats, or even as a dip for crusty bread. Whether you’re meal prepping or whipping it up fresh, this cilantro lemon pesto is an easy, vibrant way to brighten any dish. Keywords: cilantro lemon pesto, quick pesto recipe, fresh herb sauce, easy homemade pesto, no-cook pesto sauce.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh cilantro leaves
- 0.5 cups Fresh parsley leaves (optional, for balance)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
- 0.25 cups Unsalted roasted cashews (or pine nuts)
- 0.25 cups Grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 Garlic cloves
- 0.5 cups Extra-virgin olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
1. Begin by rinsing and thoroughly drying the cilantro and parsley leaves to remove any dirt or debris.
2. In a food processor or high-powered blender, combine the fresh cilantro, parsley (if using), lemon juice, lemon zest, roasted cashews, Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves.
3. Pulse the ingredients a few times until they are roughly chopped and beginning to combine.
4. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the machine is running. Blend until the pesto is smooth and well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
5. Season the pesto with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend briefly to incorporate the seasonings.
6. Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add a little more lemon juice for brightness or salt for enhanced flavor, if desired.
7. Transfer the pesto to a clean jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
8. Use as a dip, sauce, or topping to elevate your favorite dishes!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1449 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 146.7 g | 188% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.2 g | 116% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 20 mg | 7% | |
| Sodium | 1656 mg | 72% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 29.3 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.2 g | 40% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.6 g | ||
| Protein | 24.0 g | 48% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 640 mg | 49% | |
| Iron | 11.8 mg | 66% | |
| Potassium | 1896 mg | 40% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
