Cilantro Lime Pesto
Bright, zesty, and packed with vibrant flavors, this Cilantro Lime Pesto is a unique twist on the classic Italian sauce that brings a fresh, citrusy flair to your favorite dishes. Made with aromatic cilantro, toasted almonds, tangy lime juice, and a hint of Parmesan, this pesto is as versatile as it is delicious. The balance of garlic, lime zest, and a touch of red pepper flakes adds depth and a subtle kick, while olive oil ties it all together for a silky finish. Ready in just 10 minutes, this easy no-cook recipe is perfect as a pasta sauce, a zippy marinade for grilled meats, or even a flavorful spread for sandwiches and wraps. Store it in the fridge or freezer for bursts of garden-fresh flavor all year long!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups (loosely packed) fresh cilantro leaves
- 0.333 cup raw almonds
- 0.333 cup (grated) Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 0.5 cup olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
Prepare the cilantro by rinsing it thoroughly under cold water and drying it completely. Remove any large stems.
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the almonds for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from the heat and let them cool slightly.
Add the cilantro leaves, toasted almonds, grated Parmesan, garlic cloves, lime juice, and lime zest to a food processor or blender.
Pulse the mixture a few times until the cilantro and almonds are coarsely chopped.
With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. Scrape down the sides as needed.
Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Pulse a few more times to combine.
Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning or lime juice if necessary.
Transfer the Cilantro Lime Pesto to a jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
Use as a sauce for pasta, a topping for grilled meats, or a spread for sandwiches and wraps.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
173 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 17.8 g | 23% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.9 g | 14% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 4 mg | 1% | |
| Sodium | 65 mg | 3% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 2.2 g | 1% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.9 g | 3% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.3 g | ||
| Protein | 2.7 g | 5% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 60 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 0.3 mg | 2% | |
| Potassium | 62 mg | 1% | |
*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.
