When it comes to adding a burst of flavor to your meals, few herbs can rival the mighty cilantro. With its citrusy aroma and tangy taste, this popular herb is a staple in many cuisines around the world. From Mexican dishes to Indian curries, cilantro’s unique flavor profile makes it a versatile ingredient that’s perfect for elevating everything from simple salads to hearty stews.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 fresh cilantro recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next dinner party, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with this amazing herb.
Cilantro Lime Chicken
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful Cilantro Lime Chicken dish. Marinated in a zesty mixture of lime juice, olive oil, and cilantro, these chicken breasts are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and massage the marinade into the chicken.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Fresh Cilantro Pesto Pasta
Brighten up your pasta dish with the vibrant flavor of fresh cilantro and a hint of garlic. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves and stems
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and slightly thickened.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste, then blend again to combine.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the cilantro pesto sauce. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cilantro Garlic Shrimp Skewers
A flavorful and colorful appetizer or main course that combines the freshness of cilantro with the pungency of garlic, perfectly balanced by succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together garlic, cilantro, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Thread 3-4 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each one.
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Avocado Cilantro Lime Dressing
A refreshing twist on traditional salad dressings, this Avocado Cilantro Lime Dressing combines the creaminess of ripe avocados with the brightness of fresh lime juice and cilantro. Perfect for topping your favorite greens or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cilantro Rice with Black Beans
This recipe combines the earthy taste of black beans with the bright flavor of cilantro, all wrapped up in a flavorful rice dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side to your favorite Latin-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the rice to the saucepan; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the water to the saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the black beans and cilantro. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cilantro Margarita
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this spicy twist on a classic margarita. Fresh cilantro and jalapeño peppers add a zesty kick to this refreshing cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce fresh lime juice
– 1/2 ounce agave syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1-2 dashes hot sauce (such as sriracha)
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, agave syrup, and jalapeño pepper.
3. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: None, just chill and serve!
Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus
A twist on the classic hummus recipe, this version adds a kick from jalapeños and a burst of fresh flavor from cilantro. Perfect as a dip for veggies or pita chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, jalapeño, cilantro, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve with pita chips or veggies.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cilantro Lime Grilled Corn
Elevate your grilled corn game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe! A perfect summer side dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves and stems
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
3. Brush the corn ears with olive oil.
4. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until lightly charred.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the cilantro-lime mixture evenly onto each ear.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cilantro Coconut Chutney
This vibrant green chutney is a flavorful addition to any meal, perfect for serving with Indian-inspired dishes or as a dip for snacks. The combination of fresh cilantro, coconut, and spices creates a tangy and aromatic condiment that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, coconut, onion, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, adding lime juice, cumin, and salt as needed.
3. Gradually add water and blend until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup of chutney
Cilantro Lime Steak Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of lime, the freshness of cilantro, and the richness of grilled steak.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the marinade on both sides of the steak; let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Slice the steak thinly against the grain.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos with sliced steak, chopped cilantro, radishes, lime wedges, and sour cream (if using).
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cilantro Ginger Salmon
This recipe combines the bright flavors of cilantro and ginger with the richness of salmon, creating a dish that’s both healthy and impressive. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cilantro, ginger, olive oil, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the cilantro-ginger mixture 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
Cilantro Cucumber Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for hot summer days or as a light accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats and vegetables. With the brightness of cilantro, crunch of cucumbers, and tanginess of lime juice, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices and chopped cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the top and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Cilantro Mint Chutney
This refreshing chutney is a perfect accompaniment to Indian dishes like naan, tandoori chicken, and grilled meats. Its bright green color and tangy flavor will add a burst of freshness 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 lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon green chili paste (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, mint, onion, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, adding lemon juice and green chili paste (if using).
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup of chutney
Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice
This vibrant and flavorful side dish is a perfect blend of Mexican-inspired flavors and healthy, low-carb cauliflower “rice”. With only 5 ingredients and 10 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is quick, easy, and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
2. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the cauliflower “rice” and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cilantro Chimichurri Sauce
This Argentinean-inspired herb sauce is a perfect condiment for grilled meats, vegetables, or bread. With its bright green color and tangy flavor, it’s sure to elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine cilantro, garlic, and salt. Process until well combined.
2. Add the red wine vinegar and process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top. Process until the sauce is emulsified and thickened.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cilantro Garlic Butter Naan
Elevate your naan game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the freshness of cilantro, pungency of garlic, and richness of butter. Perfect as a side dish or used to scoop up your favorite curries and stews.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 cup lukewarm water
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Preheat a non-stick skillet or tava over medium heat.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions and roll out each portion into a ball.
6. Roll out each ball into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
7. Brush one side with garlic butter mixture (softened butter mixed with minced garlic and chopped cilantro).
8. Cook naan for 30 seconds to 1 minute or until slightly puffed and golden.
9. Flip and cook the other side for another 30 seconds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cilantro Lime Quinoa Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with fluffy quinoa, tangy cilantro lime dressing, and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped bell peppers, carrots, and avocado for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together chopped cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Once quinoa is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the cilantro lime dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot or at room temperature, topped with your choice of vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, avocado).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cilantro Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your cooking with this flavorful and aromatic oil perfect for salad dressings, marinades, or finishing dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves and stems
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cilantro leaves and stems with cold water, then gently pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a clean glass jar or container, combine the olive oil and cilantro.
3. Stir well to ensure the cilantro is fully submerged in the oil.
4. If desired, add lemon juice for added brightness (about 1 tablespoon).
5. Store the mixture at room temperature (away from direct sunlight) 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, discarding the solids.
Cooking Time:
– Minimum infusion time: 2 hours
– Maximum infusion time: Overnight (8-12 hours)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 18 fresh cilantro recipes! From savory dishes like Cilantro Lime Chicken and Fresh Cilantro Pesto Pasta, to sweet treats like Spicy Cilantro Margarita and Cilantro Mint Chutney, there’s something for everyone. Add a burst of flavor to your meals with Cilantro Garlic Shrimp Skewers, Avocado Cilantro Lime Dressing, or Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus. These recipes showcase the versatility of cilantro and will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to please.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
