Cilantro Spinach Pesto Recipes

CHIPOTLE CILANTRO PESTO

Steps:

• In a food processor, combine the spinach, cilantro, parsley, pumpkin seeds, cheese, oregano, garlic and chile. Pulse to blend.
• With the motor running, add the oil and lime juice and process for 15 to 20 minutes until well blended.
• Scrape into a container, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use.
• The pesto keeps for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Makes 2 cups.
• IDEA: Substitute chicken broth for oil and use the same day. Shake well before using.
• NOTES : Adjust the "fire" of the adobo (hotter than the chile) to your taste and experience. For more flavor, add tarragon, rosemary, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red bell peppers, roasted eggplant, whatever! Use as a condiment. Dab and swirl into thick soups. Toss onto hot pasta, especially good on polenta-pasta-twists. Add to salsa. The cilantro pesto could be made, I think, with less or no oil - sub broth.

CILANTRO-PEPITA PESTO

Steps:

• Place the first five ingredients in a food processor; cover and pulse just until chopped. Add the lime and lemon juices and salt; cover and process until blended. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

FABULOUS CILANTRO PESTO

Steps:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta, and return water to a boil. Cook pasta for 8 to 10 minutes, or until al dente; drain well.
• In an electric food processor or blender, blend cilantro, garlic, vinegar, Parmesan cheese, cayenne pepper, nuts, and salt. Add 1/4 cup of the olive oil, and blend the pesto. Add more olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
• Pour pesto in a small saucepan and warm over low heat, stirring constantly, until pesto begins to simmer. Pour over cooked pasta and toss.