Spicy Cilantro Pesto | Made by Meaghan Moineau
Title: A Zesty Twist on Tradition: Spicy Cilantro Pesto RecipeDescription: Dive into the vibrant flavors of our Spicy Cilantro Pesto, a modern twist on a classic favorite. This cilantro-based pesto, enriched with a hint of chili, is sure to awaken your taste buds. Perfect as an appetizer or a vibrant addition to your main dishes, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
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A Zesty Twist on Tradition: Spicy Cilantro Pesto Recipe
If you've ever found yourself yearning for a dish that combines the freshness of herbs with a hint of heat, our Spicy Cilantro Pesto is exactly what you need. This versatile recipe brings a contemporary twist to the traditional basil pesto, infusing it with the lively flavors of cilantro and a subtle kick of chili. Whether you're a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, this dish is simple to prepare and offers an explosion of flavor with every bite.
Ingredients:
- Fresh cilantro- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon mild chili powder
- 1/4 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Sea salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Begin by placing fresh cilantro in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.2. Add garlic, sea salt, pepitas, and mild chili powder to the processor. Chop until well blended.
3. Using an attachment for adding liquids, slowly incorporate olive oil drop by drop while the food processor is running. This will form a thick, aromatic paste.
4. Once combined, scoop the vibrant green pesto into pint jars.
5. Store in the refrigerator for regular use or freeze for long-term storage.
Nostalgic Family Memory:
This Spicy Cilantro Pesto always takes me back to the summers spent in my grandmother's garden. I remember the hours we spent picking fresh herbs, the sun warming our backs, and the air filled with the intoxicating scent of nature. My grandmother, an inspiring cook, used to prepare a similar pesto with whatever fresh ingredients she could find. Her kitchen was always alive with the sound of the food processor whirring and the smell of garlic mingling with herbs.
One summer night, we decided to experiment by adding a touch of mild chili powder, something my grandmother had never done before. The result was a pesto that had a delightful kick, a combination of her traditional recipe and our modern twist. It became a family favorite, a symbol of our culinary adventures together. Even now, as I prepare this dish, I feel her presence, guiding my hands, and hear her laughter echoing in the kitchen.
Difficulty: 3/10
Classification: Appetizer
This Spicy Cilantro Pesto is not just a dish; it's a journey back to cherished family moments and a testament to the joy of combining tradition with innovation. Whether spread over warm bread, tossed with pasta, or used as a zesty dip, it's bound to become a staple in your kitchen too. Enjoy the spicy, aromatic flavors and maybe create a few nostalgic memories of your own along the way.