Cilantro When You Need It
Bursting with vibrant flavors and bright herbal notes, "Cilantro When You Need It" is your ultimate solution for preserving the fresh, zesty essence of cilantro in a versatile paste. This quick, 10-minute recipe combines fresh cilantro leaves, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and a hint of cumin for a bold, aromatic blend perfect for enhancing countless dishes. Whether you're adding a spoonful to marinades, stirring it into soups, or using it as a lively spread, this homemade cilantro paste is a kitchen essential. An optional jalapeño adds just the right kick, customizable to your heat preference. With easy storage options—including freezing into convenient portions—this recipe ensures you can enjoy the taste of fresh cilantro whenever you need it. Perfect for meal prep and busy cooks, this is a must-try staple for any cilantro lover!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
- 3 pieces garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 0.25 cups olive oil
- 1 piece jalapeño (optional, deseeded for less heat)
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons ground cumin
Instructions
Rinse the cilantro leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit, then pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Peel the garlic cloves and roughly chop them to make blending easier.
If you're using a jalapeño, slice it open and remove the seeds for less heat or leave them in for extra spice.
In a food processor or blender, combine the cilantro leaves, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, jalapeño (if using), salt, and ground cumin.
Blend the ingredients on high until a smooth paste forms, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula.
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more lime juice for brightness, a pinch more salt, or extra olive oil if you'd like a looser consistency.
Transfer the cilantro mixture to a clean glass jar or airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze in small portions (e.g., in an ice cube tray) for long-term use.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
535 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 56.4 g | 72% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.7 g | 43% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1189 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 7.4 g | 3% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.2 g | ||
| Protein | 1.3 g | 3% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 46 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 1.5 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 201 mg | 4% | |
*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.
