Island Cilantro Pesto
Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with this vibrant Island Cilantro Pesto, a unique twist on the classic Italian favorite. Bursting with the bold flavors of fresh cilantro, toasted macadamia nuts (or cashews), and zesty lime juice, this creamy, herbaceous sauce is the perfect pairing for seafood, grilled chicken, or even a bowl of pasta. Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, while a hint of optional red pepper flakes delivers a gentle kick of heat. Ready in just 10 minutes, this no-cook recipe is easy to whip up and packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients. Whether you're looking for a quick dip, spread, or topping, this tropically inspired pesto is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves
- 0.33 cup toasted macadamia nuts (or cashews)
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 0.33 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 0.25 teaspoon sea salt
- 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Begin by thoroughly washing and drying the fresh cilantro leaves. Remove any tough stems.
In a food processor, combine the cilantro leaves, toasted macadamia nuts (or cashews), grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves.
Pulse the mixture a few times until the ingredients are roughly chopped.
Add the fresh lime juice, sea salt, and optional crushed red pepper flakes into the food processor.
While blending, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil to create a smooth and creamy consistency. Scrape down the sides of the food processor as needed.
Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or lime juice if desired.
Transfer the Island Cilantro Pesto to a clean jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. The pesto will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1144 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 119.1 g | 153% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.1 g | 116% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 40 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 1372 mg | 60% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 17.6 g | 6% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.9 g | 32% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.9 g | ||
| Protein | 25.0 g | 50% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 712 mg | 55% | |
| Iron | 7.1 mg | 39% | |
| Potassium | 1292 mg | 27% | |
*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.
