Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 18 fresh cilantro recipes that pack a punch! Cilantro, also known as coriander or dhania, adds a bright and citrusy flavor to any dish. From savory meats to zesty salads, this herb is the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, creamy, or tangy, we’ve got you covered with these bold and flavorful recipes that showcase the versatility of cilantro.
In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey around the world, exploring the flavors of Mexico, Thailand, and more. From classic tacos to innovative pasta dishes, these 18 fresh cilantro recipes are sure to inspire your next meal. So go ahead, get creative, and let the bold flavors of cilantro take center stage!
Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this refreshing recipe that combines the brightness of lime, the pungency of cilantro, and the richness of chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cilantro, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in the marinade and let sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with sliced chicken, your choice of toppings, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cilantro Shrimp Stir-Fry
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional shrimp stir-fry, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with the brightness of cilantro and a kick of heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white or brown rice for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add ginger, red pepper flakes, and cilantro; stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Return shrimp to pan and stir in any accumulated juices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over cooked rice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Cilantro Avocado Dressing
Elevate your salads and sandwiches with this refreshing and creamy dressing that combines the richness of avocado, the brightness of cilantro, and a hint of tanginess.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocados, cilantro, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the Greek yogurt, lime juice, and Dijon mustard. Blend until well combined and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
This dressing is perfect for topping salads, sandwiches, or using as a dip for vegetables. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy!
Cilantro Garlic Butter Salmon
Cilantro Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
This Cilantro Garlic Butter Salmon recipe combines the freshness of cilantro with the pungency of garlic and the richness of butter to create a flavorful and aromatic dish. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro until well combined.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic-cilantro butter evenly over each salmon fillet.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Fresh Cilantro Pesto Pasta
This vibrant and flavorful recipe combines the brightness of cilantro with the creaminess of pesto, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts or almonds)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine cilantro, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Process until well combined and slightly chunky.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Process until smooth and creamy.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the pesto sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls
Brighten up your mealtime with the refreshing flavors of cilantro and lime in these simple rice bowls.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional toppings: grilled chicken, avocado, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and olive oil.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro and lime dressing.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot in bowls and add your favorite toppings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Cilantro Coconut Soup
This creamy and aromatic soup is a staple of Thai cuisine, perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
2. Add chicken; cook until browned.
3. Add broth, coconut milk, cilantro, ginger, and curry paste. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus
This vibrant dip combines the freshness of cilantro with the spicy kick of jalapeños, perfect for snack time or as a topping for your favorite dishes. With just a few simple ingredients and quick prep time, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful hummus in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves and stems
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, lemon juice, and tahini.
2. Blend on high speed for 2-3 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Grilled Cilantro Lime Steak
This recipe combines the bold flavors of grilled steak with the brightness of lime and the freshness of cilantro, perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 lbs flank steak
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. During the last minute of cooking, brush the steak with the cilantro-lime mixture.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cilantro Chimichurri Sauce
This Argentinean-inspired condiment is a flavorful and refreshing addition to grilled meats, vegetables, and bread. With its tangy, herby flavor profile, 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
– 3 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 and slightly chopped.
2. With the processor running, slowly pour in red wine vinegar and olive oil. Process until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready to use immediately.
Cilantro Cucumber Salad
This vibrant salad is perfect for hot summer days when you need a cooling and flavorful accompaniment to your meals. The combination of fresh cucumbers, tangy cilantro, and zesty lime juice will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices, cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
2. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the cucumbers are well coated with the dressing.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled, so feel free to prepare it ahead of time.
Cilantro Mint Chutney
This refreshing chutney is a perfect accompaniment to Indian dishes like naan, tandoori chicken, or as a dip for snacks. The combination of cilantro and mint adds a burst of freshness and flavor to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, mint, onion, garlic, and ginger paste.
2. Blend until the mixture is smooth and the leaves are well-chopped.
3. Heat the lemon juice, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a small pan over low heat.
4. Add the lemon juice mixture to the blender or food processor and blend until well combined.
5. With the blender or food processor running, slowly add the water and continue blending until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cilantro Lime Grilled Corn
Add a burst of fresh flavor to your grilled corn with this simple and delicious recipe. The combination of cilantro, lime juice, and chili flakes will transport you to a sunny summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cilantro, lime juice, and chili flakes.
3. Brush the corn with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the corn with the cilantro-lime mixture.
6. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cilantro Black Bean Soup
This vibrant soup combines the nutty flavor of black beans with the freshness of cilantro, perfect for a light and satisfying meal. With its simplicity and depth of flavor, it’s a great option for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Add the black beans, vegetable broth, and cilantro.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cilantro Yogurt Marinated Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic marinade featuring cilantro, yogurt, and spices brings out the best in chicken, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, cilantro, lemon juice, olive oil, garam masala, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Place the chicken in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Cilantro Ginger Stir-Fried Vegetables
This recipe combines the freshness of cilantro with the warmth of ginger to create a delicious and healthy stir-fry dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side dish for your favorite protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add the mixed vegetables; stir-fry until they start to soften (2-3 minutes).
4. Stir in the chopped cilantro, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Continue stir-frying until the vegetables are tender-crisp (1-2 minutes more).
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Ceviche
This refreshing ceviche recipe combines succulent shrimp with the bright flavors of cilantro, lime juice, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, lime juice, cilantro, jalapeño, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to break up the shrimp.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, give the mixture a good stir and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cilantro Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your cooking with the freshness of cilantro infused into rich olive oil. This flavorful condiment is perfect for finishing dishes, making salad dressings, or using as a marinade.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup good-quality olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves and stems
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the olive oil and cilantro.
2. Stir to combine, then cover the jar and let it sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. After infusion time has passed, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
4. If desired, add a pinch of salt to taste.
5. Store the infused oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 fresh cilantro recipes featuring bold flavors! From tacos and stir-fries to soups and salads, cilantro adds a burst of freshness and zest to any dish. Try Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos, Spicy Cilantro Shrimp Stir-Fry, or Creamy Cilantro Avocado Dressing for a taste sensation. Or, go international with Thai Cilantro Coconut Soup or Cilantro Mint Chutney. With so many options, you’ll never get bored with these cilantro recipes!
