Nut-Free Cilantro Pesto
Bright, zesty, and bursting with fresh flavors, this Nut-Free Cilantro Pesto is a delicious twist on the classic Italian condiment. Perfect for those with nut allergies or anyone seeking a lighter alternative, this pesto is packed with vibrant cilantro, tangy lemon juice, and the rich umami of Parmesan cheese. A quick 10-minute recipe with no cooking required, it’s effortlessly blended to creamy perfection in a food processor with garlic, olive oil, and a hint of seasoning. Use it as a dip, spread, or sauce to elevate pasta, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even sandwiches. With its bold taste and versatile uses, this nut-free cilantro pesto will become your go-to for adding a burst of flavor to any meal!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh cilantro leaves
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 Garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 0.5 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper, freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons Water
Instructions
1. Rinse the cilantro thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt and dry completely using a salad spinner or a clean kitchen towel.
2. In a food processor, combine the cilantro leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, and peeled garlic cloves. Blend for about 10 seconds until the mixture is finely chopped.
3. Add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the food processor. Blend for another 5 seconds until well combined.
4. With the food processor running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Continue to blend until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency.
5. If the pesto is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time and pulse until achieving the desired consistency.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if needed.
7. Transfer the cilantro pesto to an airtight container and refrigerate if not using immediately. Properly stored, it will last up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1191 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 129.4 g | 166% | |
| Saturated Fat | 24.0 g | 120% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 40 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 1969 mg | 86% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 9.8 g | 4% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.8 g | 21% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.8 g | ||
| Protein | 21.9 g | 44% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 670 mg | 52% | |
| Iron | 5.6 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 1128 mg | 24% | |
*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.
