Are you tired of using cilantro as just a garnish for your favorite dishes? Look no further! Cilantro is a versatile herb that can add a burst of fresh flavor to everything from soups and salads to meats and main courses. In this article, we’ll explore 18 flavorful cilantro recipes that will take your cooking to the next level.
From classic Mexican-inspired dishes like Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos and Cilantro Chicken Enchiladas, to creative twists on comfort food favorites like Cilantro Garlic Butter Steak and Cilantro Avocado Toast, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of cilantro and discover all the ways this humble herb can elevate your cooking. So grab your apron, get ready to get creative, and let’s dive into our top 18 cilantro recipes!
Cilantro Lime Chicken Skewers
Get ready to impress your friends and family with this flavorful and refreshing twist on classic chicken skewers! This recipe combines the brightness of lime juice, the warmth of cumin, and the freshness of cilantro for a taste sensation that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with cilantro.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Fresh Cilantro Pesto Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of fresh cilantro with the richness of olive oil. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (linguine or spaghetti work well)
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves and stems
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Add cooked pasta to the pesto mixture and toss to coat. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos
Brighten up your taco Tuesday with this zesty and flavorful recipe featuring succulent shrimp, tangy lime juice, and fresh cilantro. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lime juice, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, sliced lime wedges, and your favorite toppings (such as diced tomatoes, avocado, or salsa).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cilantro Garlic Butter Steak
Elevate your steak game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the pungency of garlic, freshness of cilantro, and richness of butter.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Add chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place steak on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Once cooked, let steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
6. Serve with the garlic-cilantro butter spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes total
Cilantro Coconut Curry Soup
This vibrant and aromatic soup is a perfect blend of Indian-inspired flavors, with the freshness of cilantro and the richness of coconut milk. Serve it as a starter or a light meal for a deliciously satisfying experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add coconut milk and broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls
Fresh cilantro and zesty lime juice elevate this flavorful rice bowl dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional toppings: grilled chicken, avocado, sliced almonds, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped cilantro and lime juice.
3. Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in olive oil, salt, and the cilantro-lime mixture.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with your desired optional ingredients.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cilantro Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this creamy and fresh Cilantro Avocado Toast recipe, perfect for a quick and nutritious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread (toasted)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the avocado.
4. Squeeze a sliver of lime juice over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drizzle with olive oil for extra flavor.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cilantro Chimichurri Sauce
This Argentinean-inspired condiment is a flavorful accompaniment to grilled meats, vegetables, and bread. With its tangy and herbaceous taste, it’s perfect for brightening up any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until well combined.
2. With the processor running, slowly pour in red wine vinegar and olive oil through the top. Process until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus
Add a spicy twist to traditional hummus with the freshness of cilantro and the kick of jalapeño peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Transfer hummus to a serving bowl and garnish with additional cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cilantro Lime Grilled Corn
Elevate your summer barbecues with this flavorful and easy-to-make Cilantro Lime Grilled Corn recipe. The perfect combination of sweet and savory, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
6. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cilantro Chicken Enchiladas
This recipe combines the brightness of cilantro with the richness of chicken and cheese, wrapped up in a delicious enchilada package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
3. In a separate pan, combine the chopped cilantro and shredded cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and well combined.
4. To assemble the enchiladas, dip each tortilla in the enchilada sauce, then fill with the chicken mixture and top with the cilantro-cheese mixture. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with additional cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice
This recipe transforms cauliflower into a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional rice, infused with the bright flavors of cilantro and lime. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for bowls and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cauliflower “rice” and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
3. Add chopped cilantro, garlic, and lime juice to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cilantro Pesto Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this innovative recipe that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the brightness of cilantro pesto.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/4 cup cilantro pesto (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cilantro pesto, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the pesto mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
4. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cilantro Lime Salmon Ceviche
A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines the flavors of cilantro and lime with succulent salmon for a delicious and light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sashimi-grade salmon, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the salmon pieces and lime juice.
2. Stir in the chopped cilantro and olive oil.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This ceviche is best served fresh and raw.
Cilantro Black Bean Salad
This vibrant salad combines the nutty flavor of black beans with the pungency of cilantro, making it a perfect addition to any meal. With its bold colors and tangy dressing, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cilantro Coconut Chutney
A flavorful and refreshing condiment that pairs perfectly with Indian-inspired dishes, this Cilantro Coconut Chutney is a delicious addition to any meal. With its vibrant green color and zesty taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, coconut flakes, onion, garlic, and ginger.
2. Blend until smooth, adding lemon juice and salt as needed.
3. Add water and blend until desired consistency is reached.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cilantro Lime Grilled Shrimp
Brighten up your meal with the zesty flavors of Mexico! This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a tangy cilantro lime marinade, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and cilantro. Blend until smooth.
2. Place the shrimp in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, beans, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cilantro Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your cooking with this flavorful and aromatic olive oil infused with the freshness of cilantro. Perfect for adding a burst of citrusy flavor to salads, marinades, and dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves and stems
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cilantro leaves and stems with cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a clean glass jar or airtight container, combine the olive oil and cilantro mixture.
3. Stir gently to ensure the cilantro is fully submerged in the oil.
4. If desired, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor (optional).
5. Store the infused oil in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container before using.
Cooking Time: 0-2 hours
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 mouthwatering cilantro recipes! From savory dishes like Cilantro Garlic Butter Steak and Cilantro Coconut Curry Soup, to refreshing options like Cilantro Lime Chicken Skewers and Cilantro Avocado Toast, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a flavorful pasta dish, a zesty taco filling, or a creamy hummus, these recipes will inspire your culinary creativity and leave you wanting more.
