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The Best Cilantro Pesto Recipe Recipe

Fresh and lively Cilantro Pesto is full of zippy flavor and totally adaptable! Toss with pasta, spread on bread, serve with soups, beans and eggs. Healthy and easy to make!

4.8 from 153 votes
10 mins
Total Time
1
cup
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The Best Cilantro Pesto Recipe

How to Make the Best The Best Cilantro Pesto Recipe

This cilantro pesto is a vibrant, fresh twist on the classic basil version that’s perfect for anyone who loves bold, herbaceous flavors. Made with just a handful of simple ingredients, it comes together in minutes and adds an incredible punch of freshness to almost any dish you can imagine.

What makes this pesto so versatile is its bright, zesty profile from the cilantro and citrus juice. Unlike traditional pesto, this version has a lighter, more refreshing taste that pairs beautifully with Mexican-inspired dishes, grilled proteins, roasted vegetables, and even simple scrambled eggs. The combination of almonds and pumpkin seeds gives it a lovely texture and nutty depth.

Whether you’re looking for a quick sauce to elevate weeknight pasta, a flavorful spread for sandwiches, or a finishing touch for soups and grain bowls, this cilantro pesto delivers. It’s also easy to customize—leave out the parmesan for a dairy-free option, adjust the garlic to your liking, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

The Best Cilantro Pesto Recipe

The Best Cilantro Pesto Recipe

Fresh and lively Cilantro Pesto is full of zippy flavor and totally adaptable! Toss with pasta, spread on bread, serve with soups, beans and eggs. Healthy and easy to make!

4.8 from 153 votes
CourseSauce
CuisineAmerican
Keywordcilantro pesto, how to make cilantro pesto, best cilantro pesto, cilantro pesto recipe, cilantro pesto healthy, cilantro pesto vegan
Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time0 mins
Total Time10 mins
Servings1 cup
Calories149kcal
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Ingredients

Cilantro Pesto

Instructions

Cilantro Pesto

  1. Place all ingredients in a food processor.
  2. Pulse for about a minute until all ingredients begin to break down and combine. You want the texture to be a little grainy.
  3. Serve tossed with pasta, spread on bread, swirl in soup or on roasted vegetables and salmon.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, simply omit the parmesan cheese—the pesto is delicious without it.
  • Add more olive oil for a looser, more drizzle-able texture.
  • Use 1-2 garlic cloves depending on your preference for garlic intensity.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
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