Fresh Cilantro Jalapeno Pesto Recipe: Don't Feel Guilty, Basil Pesto Will Understand Sauces/Condiments Pasta Mexican Recipes Farm to Table Recipe

Not only are my basil plants thriving, but also my jalapeno plants. While I love basil pesto, I decided to try a new version of pesto to utilize all my fresh-picked peppers: cilantro jalapeno pesto. This homemade pesto recipe is loaded with flavor and so easy to make. (Sorry, basil pesto!)

All you need for this fresh cilantro basil recipe is cilantro, almonds or walnuts, a jalapeno, garlic and olive oil. You can also add some cotija cheese if you need the cheese in your pesto. I've made it both ways and they are equally delicious. Put all the ingredients into a blender or food processor and whirl until thick and combined. Make it as smooth or chunky as you like. If you like a thinner pesto, add a little more olive oil. Be sure to season with salt and black pepper.

You can use this fresh cilantro jalapeno pesto in so many different ways! Try it on pasta, pizza, baked potatoes, sandwiches, toasted bread, tacos, grilled chicken or flank steak, or stir it in to sour cream for a delicious dip with tortilla chips. You can even marinate chicken, fish, shrimp, pork or beef in this flavorful pesto.

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Cuisine: American / Italian / Mexican
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes 
Servings:

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup chopped almonds or walnuts
• 1 bunch cilantro, tough stems removed
• 1 jalapeno, seeds and ribs removed 
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/4 cup olive oil (or more, if needed)
• 1 - 2 tablespoons cotija cheese (optional)

Helpful Products

• Food Processor
• Blender
• Salt and Pepper

Recipe Notes

• This pesto is delicious with or without the cheese, so don't add if you want a dairy-free pesto.

• Leave the seeds and ribs on the jalapeno if you want a spicier pesto.

• For some tanginess, add some fresh-squeezed lime or lemon juice.

• Add some cilantro stems to the blender, too. Just remove if they are thick and tough. 

Here's how to make it: 

1. Put all the ingredients into a blender or food processor. Season with salt and black pepper.
2. Pulse until thick and combined, adding more olive oil if needed. 

Recipe cooking times and servings are approximate. Need to convert cooking and baking measurements? Here are some kitchen conversion charts. Here's how to submit your recipes to 30Seconds.

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