Herbed Cilantro Parsley Pesto
This vibrant Herbed Cilantro Parsley Pesto is a delightful twist on traditional pesto, featuring a harmonious blend of fresh cilantro and parsley. With toasted pine nuts adding a rich nuttiness and zesty garlic elevating the flavor profile, this pesto becomes a versatile companion to a variety of dishes. Perfect for grilled fish, seafood, chicken, or stirred into pasta, it promises a burst of freshness in every bite. Preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious. A touch of lemon juice brightens the mix, while just a hint of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat for those who prefer a bit of spice.
6
Servings
125
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh cilantro
1 1/2 cups (washed and roughly chopped, or 10 fresh cilantro stems)
fresh parsley
1 1/2 cups (washed and roughly chopped, or 10 parsley sprigs)
garlic cloves
4 (peeled)
pine nuts
1/2 cup (toasted)
parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
lemon juice
1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
salt
1 teaspoon (or to taste)
red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon (optional)
extra virgin olive oil
1/4-1/3 cup (high quality)
water
1-2 tablespoons (optional for adjusting consistency)
Instructions
1
Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and toast them lightly until they are golden brown and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
2
In a food processor, combine the fresh cilantro, fresh parsley, garlic cloves, toasted pine nuts, grated parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3
With the food processor running, drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil gradually until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Stop to scrape down the sides as needed.
4
If the pesto is too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until reaching a smooth, peanut butter-like consistency.
5
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the pesto at room temperature, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week to allow flavors to develop further.
Nutrition Information
11g
Fat
2.5g
Carbs
3.3g
Protein
0.5g
Fiber
0.17g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Herbed Cilantro Parsley Pesto?
It is a vibrant twist on traditional pesto featuring a blend of fresh cilantro, parsley, toasted pine nuts, and zesty garlic.
What are the primary herbs used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1 1/2 cups each of fresh cilantro and fresh parsley.
Can I use cilantro stems in this pesto?
Yes, you can use 10 fresh cilantro stems instead of chopped leaves.
Can I use parsley sprigs?
Yes, the recipe allows for 10 parsley sprigs as an alternative to chopped parsley.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
You will need 4 peeled garlic cloves for this recipe.
Do I need to toast the pine nuts?
Yes, the pine nuts should be toasted lightly until golden brown and fragrant to add a rich nuttiness.
How should I toast the pine nuts?
Preheat a skillet over medium heat and stir the pine nuts frequently to prevent burning.
What type of cheese is used in this pesto?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese.
What type of oil is recommended?
High quality extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor.
How much olive oil should I use?
The recipe requires between 1/4 and 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil.
Is this pesto spicy?
It contains a hint of heat from 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, though this ingredient is optional.
Why is water included in the ingredients?
Water is used to adjust the consistency if the pesto becomes too thick.
How much water should I add?
Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water, one at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
What is the ideal consistency for this pesto?
The pesto should have a smooth, peanut butter-like consistency.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 125 calories per serving.
What is the fat content of this pesto?
Each serving contains 11g of fat.
How much protein is in a serving?
There are 3.3g of protein per serving.
What are the carbohydrates per serving?
Each serving contains 2.5g of carbohydrates.
How much sugar is in the pesto?
There is a very low sugar content of 0.17g per serving.
What is the best way to serve this pesto?
It can be served at room temperature and pairs well with grilled fish, seafood, chicken, or pasta.
Can I make this pesto in advance?
Yes, preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld and develop further.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How long does the pesto last in the fridge?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Does this recipe use lemon juice?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice is used to brighten the flavor profile.
What appliance is needed to make this?
A food processor is used to combine the ingredients and emulsify the oil.
How much salt is required?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt, or you can adjust to taste.
Should I wash the herbs before using?
Yes, both the cilantro and parsley should be washed and roughly chopped.
What category of food does this fall under?
This recipe is categorized under Sauces.
Is this pesto suitable for pasta?
Yes, it is excellent when stirred into pasta dishes for a burst of freshness.