**Cilantro Pepita Pesto: A Burst of Freshness and Nutty Delight**
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Cilantro Pepita Pesto, a unique culinary creation that blends the tanginess of cilantro, the nutty richness of pepitas, and a symphony of aromatic herbs. This versatile condiment adds a burst of freshness to any dish, from grilled meats and roasted vegetables to pasta and salads. With its distinct flavor profile, Cilantro Pepita Pesto elevates ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences. In this diverse collection, you'll find a treasure trove of recipes that showcase the versatility of this vibrant pesto. From the classic Cilantro Pepita Pesto recipe to variations that incorporate roasted tomatoes, spicy serrano peppers, and creamy avocados, there's a pesto for every palate and culinary adventure. So, embark on a culinary journey and discover the endless possibilities of Cilantro Pepita Pesto, where freshness meets nutty delight in every bite.
**Recipes in the Article:**
1. **Classic Cilantro Pepita Pesto:** A foundational recipe that captures the essence of this flavorful condiment. Fresh cilantro, toasted pepitas, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil come together to create a vibrant and herbaceous pesto.
2. **Roasted Tomato Cilantro Pepita Pesto:** This variation adds a touch of sweetness and smokiness with roasted tomatoes. The roasted tomatoes not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful color to the pesto.
3. **Spicy Serrano Cilantro Pepita Pesto:** For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this recipe incorporates spicy serrano peppers. The serranos add a delightful kick to the pesto without overpowering the other flavors.
4. **Creamy Avocado Cilantro Pepita Pesto:** This luscious variation introduces the creamy richness of avocados. The avocados lend a velvety texture and a subtle nutty flavor, creating a pesto that is both creamy and flavorful.
5. **Cilantro Pepita Pesto Pasta:** A simple yet satisfying dish that combines the vibrant pesto with your favorite pasta. The pesto coats the pasta in a flavorful sauce, creating a delightful meal that is quick and easy to prepare.
6. **Cilantro Pepita Pesto Roasted Vegetables:** Transform ordinary roasted vegetables into a culinary delight with the addition of Cilantro Pepita Pesto. The pesto adds a burst of flavor to the vegetables, making them a delicious and nutritious side dish or a delightful vegetarian main course.
7. **Cilantro Pepita Pesto Chicken:** Elevate your chicken dishes with the herbaceous and nutty flavors of Cilantro Pepita Pesto. The pesto can be used as a marinade, a sauce, or a topping, adding a delicious layer of flavor to chicken breasts, thighs, or wings.
8. **Cilantro Pepita Pesto Salad Dressing:** Create a refreshing and flavorful salad dressing with Cilantro Pepita Pesto. The pesto adds a tangy and nutty dimension to your favorite salad greens, transforming them into a vibrant and satisfying meal.
9. **Cilantro Pepita Pesto Dip:** This versatile dip is perfect for gatherings and parties. The pesto's vibrant flavor pairs well with a variety of snacks, from crackers and chips to vegetable crudités.
10. **Cilantro Pepita Pesto Pizza:** Enjoy the unique flavors of Cilantro Pepita Pesto on your homemade pizza. The pesto makes an excellent base for your favorite pizza toppings, creating a delicious and memorable meal.
CILANTRO-PEPITA PESTO
This flavorful recipe is one of the ways I came up with to use all the cilantro in my garden. Serve it with pasta, tortilla chips for dipping or in any dish that needs perking up. -Ami Okasinski, Memphis, Tennessee
Provided by Taste of Home
Time 20m
Yield 1-1/2 cups.
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Place the first five ingredients in a food processor; cover and pulse just until chopped. Add the lime and lemon juices and salt; cover and process until blended. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 82 calories, Fat 7g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 3mg cholesterol, Sodium 130mg sodium, Carbohydrate 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 4g protein.
PEPITA, CILANTRO AND GOUDA PESTO
Pesto steps into Mexican territory with pepitas, cilantro and aged Gouda.
Provided by Food Network Kitchen
Time 10m
Yield about 1 cup
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Put the pepitas in a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Add the cilantro, garlic, orange zest and 1/4 teaspoon salt and pulse until finely chopped. Add the Gouda and pulse to combine. With the motor running, slowly pour in the grapeseed oil and process until combined. Transfer to a bowl.
Tips:
- Choose fresh, vibrant cilantro. The fresher the cilantro, the more flavorful your pesto will be. Look for cilantro that is a deep green color and has no signs of wilting.
- Toast the pepitas before using them. Toasting the pepitas will bring out their nutty flavor and make them more fragrant. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or you can spread them on a baking sheet and roast them in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes.
- Use a good quality olive oil. The olive oil you use will make a big difference in the taste of your pesto. Choose a flavorful, extra-virgin olive oil that you enjoy the taste of.
- Don't over-process the pesto. You want the pesto to be chunky, not smooth. Pulse the ingredients in a food processor or blender until they are well combined, but be careful not to over-process them.
- Taste the pesto and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to taste.
- Use the pesto right away or store it for later. Pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the pesto for up to 3 months.
Conclusion:
Cilantro pepita pesto is a delicious and versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is perfect for adding a pop of flavor to pasta, chicken, fish, or vegetables. You can also use it as a spread for sandwiches or wraps, or as a dip for crackers or pita bread. No matter how you use it, cilantro pepita pesto is sure to please your taste buds.
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