Cilantro Almond Pesto

Cilantro Almond Pesto
Cilantro Almond Pesto

The other day, a friend curiously smiled as I discussed experimenting with a Cilantro Almond Pesto. With confidence, we talked about several versions of pesto, not being limited to the traditional ingredients of basil, cheese and pine nuts. The Witchy Kitchen blog made a Basil Sunflower Seed Pesto. The sunflower seeds are economically alternative to pine nuts. Although, Despite Nuisances I Will Be Happy’s blog creatively referred to her Arugula version as a spread; it’s still a derivative of a pesto. Aimée at Simple Bites, posted a recipe of the traditional basil pesto, and she offers ideas on how to incorporate it into recipes. This week, I pick up my household’s first CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) box full of greens, fruits, vegetables and eggs. In addition to prepping and cleaning the vegetables and fruits for proper storage that will extend their freshness, several of them will turn into a pesto and frozen for future use.

Ingredients
1 bunch of fresh cilantro (about 2 cups)
1/2 cup whole almonds, toasted and cooled
The zest and juice of one lime
1 garlic clove; minced
1/2 tsp. honey
2 tbsp. rice vinegar
1/2 tsp. sea salt; more or less to taste
1/2 tsp. fresh ground black pepper; more or less to taste
1/8 tsp. crushed red pepper, to taste
1/4 cup olive oil

Directions
1. Place all ingredients, except olive oil, in a food processor and puree into a paste.

2. Slowly add olive oil.

3. Use in a favorite recipe.

5 thoughts on “Cilantro Almond Pesto

  • February 20, 2012 at 4:27 pm
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    It’s a bit too sweet i would take out the honey and the almonds burn easly so be careful!!

  • September 10, 2010 at 9:53 pm
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    Hi, Bev!

    Thanks for visiting the site! If the almond paste has sugar, I wouldn’t recommend using it. Whole, toasted almonds are better for a stronger flavor and a better texture.

    Sanura, My Life Runs On Food

  • September 9, 2010 at 7:50 pm
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    I have some left over almond paste[I just made fresh almond milk]. I would like to add it to my pesto..will it work? Do I need to add more almonds or nuts for a bolder taste? I grew extra basil and cilantro in my garden just for pesto! Thanks

  • June 15, 2010 at 12:50 pm
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    Never thought to combine cilantro with almond, but I could definitely work with this!
    .-= Belinda @zomppa´s last blog ..Photo of the Day: Pueblo Indian Feast Food =-.

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