Name: Coriander Cashew Pesto
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 3 bunches Coriander; 1 bunch Thai basil; 150 grams Cashews; 2 cloves Garlic; Extra virgin olive oil; Sesame oil; Sea salt flakes; Pepper grinder

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Whenever I’m in need of a burst of flavor, I find myself turning to my trusty Coriander Cashew Pesto. There’s just something magical about the combination of fresh herbs and nuts that instantly elevates any dish. Picture this: it’s a sunny afternoon, and I’ve got a bunch of vibrant coriander and a handful of crunchy cashews ready to transform into something delicious. As I chop and blend, the rich aroma fills my kitchen, transporting me to a sunlit garden party. This delightful pesto isn’t just a sauce; it’s an invitation to savor the moment.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Food Processor

Why You Need This Coriander Cashew Pesto

1. Versatile Flavor Booster

The beauty of Coriander Cashew Pesto lies in its versatility. It can be a dressing for salads, a dip for crackers, or a sauce for pasta. The nutty flavor of cashews pairs beautifully with the boldness of coriander, creating a symphony of tastes that can elevate any meal.

2. Nutrient-Dense Ingredients

Not only is this pesto delicious, but it’s also loaded with nutrients. Coriander is known for its detoxifying properties, while cashews provide healthy fats that keep you satiated. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that nourishes your body and soul.

3. Quick and Easy to Make

When life gets busy, having a quick recipe like Coriander Cashew Pesto on hand is a lifesaver. In just a few minutes, you can whip up a batch that can last for days, making it perfect for spontaneous meals.

4. Fresh Ingredients Matter

Using fresh ingredients elevates the flavor profile dramatically. The crispness of fresh coriander and the creaminess of freshly ground cashews create a pesto that’s vibrant and full of life, unlike anything you’d find in a jar.

5. Perfect for Entertaining

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or a casual get-together, Coriander Cashew Pesto is a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with warm bread or as part of a charcuterie board, and watch as your guests rave about your culinary skills!

Shopping List for Coriander Cashew Pesto

Creating the perfect Coriander Cashew Pesto revolves around the balance of flavors from each ingredient. The freshness of coriander adds a zesty kick, while cashews offer a creamy texture. Together, they create a harmonious blend that is both rich and refreshing.

3 bunches of coriander: This vibrant herb is the star of the show, offering a fresh and slightly citrusy flavor that brightens up dishes.
1 bunch of Thai basil: Adds a subtle anise note, enhancing the overall depth of the pesto.
150 grams of cashews: These nuts provide a creamy texture and delicious nuttiness, making the pesto rich and satisfying.
2 cloves of garlic: A staple in many recipes, garlic brings a robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the herbs.
Extra virgin olive oil: This oil helps to blend the ingredients smoothly while imparting a fruity richness.
Sesame oil: A drizzle adds a unique nutty flavor that elevates the pesto.
Sea salt flakes: Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish.
Pepper grinder: Freshly cracked pepper adds a touch of spice and warmth.

The Process for Making Coriander Cashew Pesto

Making Coriander Cashew Pesto is an exciting experience that brings the flavors to life. Let’s get started with these simple steps!

Begin by placing the leaves of coriander and Thai basil into your food processor. Make sure to wash the herbs thoroughly beforehand to remove any dirt.
Chop the leaves for about 10 to 20 seconds on high. Watch as they turn into a beautiful green paste, releasing their fresh aroma.
Next, stop the processor and add the cashews and garlic. The cashews should be unsalted and raw for the best flavor.
Add a pinch of sea salt and a few cracks from your pepper grinder. This is where the flavors begin to meld together.
Process all the ingredients together on high while slowly adding a stream of extra virgin olive oil. It helps in achieving a creamy consistency. I usually prefer a thicker pesto, but you can adjust the amount of oil based on your preference.
Continue blending until everything is combined, and the texture is smooth but still a bit chunky.
Once you’re satisfied with the consistency, drizzle in a few drops of sesame oil and blend for a few more seconds. This adds a delightful nutty flavor.
If you’re not using the pesto right away, transfer it to an airtight container. Pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top to help preserve its vibrant color and fresh taste.
Store in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage. Just scoop out what you need when you’re ready to use it!

Things Worth Knowing

Fresh herbs: Ensure your coriander and Thai basil are fresh for the best flavor.
Texture matters: Adjust the amount of olive oil based on your desired consistency.
Storage tips: Always place a layer of oil on top if storing to maintain freshness.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add nuts or spices to customize your pesto!

Tips and Variations

There are endless possibilities when it comes to making Coriander Cashew Pesto your own. Here are some tips to help you customize and enjoy this recipe:

Storage: Store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To keep it fresh, pour a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing.
Freezing: This pesto freezes beautifully! You can portion it into ice cube trays for easy use later.
Pairing: Serve it over grilled vegetables, pasta, or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.
Variations: Add a handful of nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for a unique twist.
Add cheese: For a creamier texture, consider adding a quarter cup of parmesan cheese.

Serving Options for Coriander Cashew Pesto

When it comes to serving Coriander Cashew Pesto, the options are truly endless. Here are some ideas:

With Pasta: Toss your favorite pasta with this pesto for a quick and satisfying meal.
As a Dip: Serve it alongside a platter of fresh veggies or crackers for a delightful appetizer.
On Sandwiches: Spread it on sandwiches or wraps for an extra kick of flavor.
With Grilled Chicken: Drizzle over grilled chicken for added richness and flavor.
As a Salad Dressing: Thin it out with a bit of water or extra oil to use as a salad dressing.
In Soups: Swirl it into soups for flavor enhancement at serving.

FAQ

You can use Coriander Cashew Pesto in various ways! It’s fantastic tossed with pasta, as a dip for fresh vegetables, or spread on sandwiches. It also works wonderfully as a topping for grilled meats or fish, adding a burst of flavor. The versatility of this pesto means you can get creative and incorporate it into many of your favorite dishes.

Absolutely! Freezing Coriander Cashew Pesto is a great way to preserve it for later use. Just spoon it into an ice cube tray and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the pesto cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw a cube in the refrigerator or add it directly to your dish for a quick flavor boost!

If you don’t have cashews, you can substitute them with other nuts like pine nuts or walnuts. Each type of nut will bring its own unique flavor to the pesto, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly based on the nuts you choose.

When stored properly in an airtight container, Coriander Cashew Pesto can last in the fridge for up to a week. To keep it fresh longer, pour a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing the container. This helps prevent oxidation and keeps the vibrant color and fresh flavor intact.

Conclusion

This Coriander Cashew Pesto recipe is truly special because it combines vibrant flavors with simple, fresh ingredients. I encourage you to try your hand at making it; you won’t be disappointed! Whether you enjoy it on pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.