Low Sodium Cilantro Pesto
Brighten up your meals with this zesty and herbaceous Low Sodium Cilantro Pesto! Perfect for those looking to reduce their salt intake without sacrificing flavor, this vibrant sauce combines the fresh, bold taste of cilantro with the nutty richness of walnuts, the creamy tang of Parmesan cheese, and a zingy hint of fresh lemon juice. Ready in just 10 minutes, this quick, no-cook recipe is a healthier twist on classic pesto, highlighting the subtle spice of garlic and a touch of black pepper for seasoning. Drizzle it over pasta, spread it on sandwiches, or use it as a dip—this versatile, low-sodium condiment is as easy to prepare as it is delicious. A must-try for pesto lovers seeking a bold new twist!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh cilantro leaves
- 0.5 cup Walnuts
- 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 3 large Garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
Begin by washing the cilantro thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Pat it dry or use a salad spinner.
In a food processor, combine 2 cups of fresh cilantro leaves, 0.5 cup of walnuts, and 0.5 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Peel 3 large garlic cloves and add them to the food processor.
Pulse the mixture a few times until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
With the processor running on low speed, slowly stream in 0.5 cup of extra virgin olive oil, continuing to process until the mixture is fairly smooth.
Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice for acidity and install balance to the pesto profile.
Season the mixture with 0.25 teaspoon of black pepper, adjusting to taste.
Process a few more seconds to fully incorporate all ingredients and achieve a smooth consistency.
Transfer the pesto to a jar or airtight container. For best results, use immediately or cover it with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation and store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1601 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 168.5 g | 216% | |
| Saturated Fat | 27.7 g | 138% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 28.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 40 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 791 mg | 34% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 22.0 g | 8% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.2 g | 36% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.3 g | ||
| Protein | 31.8 g | 64% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 746 mg | 57% | |
| Iron | 7.6 mg | 42% | |
| Potassium | 1441 mg | 31% | |
*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.
