Get ready to elevate your dishes with this vibrant and spicy Dill-Cilantro Pesto! Packed with fresh cilantro and dill, and a kick from hot cherry peppers, this pesto is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any meal. It’s quick, easy, and can be stored for up to two months. A must-try for any home cook looking to spice things up!
Table of Contents
Growing up, my family always had a garden brimming with fresh herbs and vegetables. I have fond memories of summer afternoons spent picking cilantro and dill, the aromatic herbs that would later transform our meals. My mother was an adventurous cook, always experimenting with new flavors and combinations. One of her most memorable creations was a zesty herb pesto that quickly became a family favorite.
Inspired by those cherished memories, I’ve crafted a modern twist on her recipe with this Spicy Dill-Cilantro Pesto. This vibrant condiment not only brings back the nostalgia of my childhood but also introduces a delightful kick with hot cherry peppers. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a busy parent like me, this pesto is a surefire way to elevate your dishes with minimal effort.
Making Culinary Magic: The Story Behind Spicy Dill-Cilantro Pesto
Have you ever had a dish that instantly transports you to a special time and place? For me, it’s this Spicy Dill-Cilantro Pesto. The combination of fresh cilantro and dill, paired with the heat from hot cherry peppers, creates a unique flavor that’s both refreshing and bold. It’s a recipe that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also evokes a sense of warmth and comfort.
Health Benefits: Nutritious and Delicious
As a dietitian, I’m always thrilled when a recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. This pesto checks all the boxes: it’s vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and low in sodium, making it a perfect fit for various dietary preferences. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can toss it with pasta, spread it on sandwiches, or use it as a topping for grilled vegetables. The possibilities are endless! This Spicy Dill-Cilantro Pesto is a powerhouse of nutrients:
Cilantro and Dill: Both herbs are rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune function and skin health. They also contain antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage.
Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, garlic also supports heart health by helping to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Hot Peppers: The capsaicin in hot peppers has been shown to boost metabolism and provide pain relief. Plus, they add a spicy kick that makes this pesto unique.
Olive Oil: A staple of the Mediterranean diet, olive oil is a source of healthy monounsaturated fats that support heart health.
Chef’s Notes:
- For a milder pesto, reduce the number of hot peppers or remove all seeds.
- This pesto pairs wonderfully with pasta, grilled vegetables, or as a spread on sandwiches.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil or parsley for a unique twist.
- Serve with crusty bread or as a topping for grilled fish or chicken for an extra flavor boost!
Spicy Dill-Cilantro Pesto
Get ready to elevate your dishes with this vibrant and spicy Dill-Cilantro Pesto! Packed with fresh cilantro and dill, and a kick from hot cherry peppers, this pesto is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any meal. It's quick, easy, and can be stored for up to two months. A must-try for any home cook looking to spice things up!
4
servings7
minutes3
minutes120
kcal10
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil
3 whole garlic cloves unpeeled
3 small hot peppers (such as cherry peppers)
2 cups packed fresh cilantro leaves
2 cups packed fresh dill leaves
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided)
A pinch sea salt
- Alternative Ingredients:
Vegetable oil can be replaced with avocado oil.
Hot cherry peppers can be substituted with jalapeños or serrano peppers.
Cilantro can be replaced with parsley for a different flavor profile.
Dill can be substituted with basil or tarragon.
Directions
- Sauté Aromatics – Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add vegetable oil, garlic cloves, and hot peppers. Sauté for about 7 minutes until the garlic and peppers are slightly charred. Transfer the garlic and peppers to a cutting board to cool. Once cooled, peel the garlic and remove the stems and seeds from the peppers.
- Blend Ingredients – In a food processor, combine the peeled garlic cloves, prepared peppers, cilantro leaves, and dill leaves. Pulse briefly to chop.
- Add Oil and Salt – Pour in 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil and add a pinch of sea salt. Puree until smooth.
- Store Pesto – Transfer the pesto to a clean jar. Pour the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil on top to cover the pesto by about 1/2 inch. Seal with a lid and refrigerate for up to 2 months.
Equipment
- cast iron skillet
- food processor
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 120kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Potassium: 100mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
- Vitamin A: 10IU
- Vitamin C: 15mg
- Calcium: 2mg
- Iron: 4mg
Bringing Families Together: Cooking with Kids
One of the joys of cooking is involving my kids in the kitchen. This recipe is a great opportunity to teach them about fresh herbs and spices, and it’s simple enough that they can help with the prep work. They love tearing the cilantro and dill leaves and watching the food processor blend everything into a vibrant green pesto.
Not only does this make the cooking process more fun, but it also encourages them to try new flavors. Plus, involving kids in the kitchen can be a wonderful bonding experience, creating memories that they’ll cherish just as I do.
Make Spicy Dill-Cilantro Pesto a Kitchen Staple
This Spicy Dill-Cilantro Pesto is more than just a condiment; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and vibrant colors. It’s a reminder of cherished family traditions and a testament to the joy of experimenting in the kitchen. Whether you’re adding it to your favorite dishes or enjoying it as a dip, this pesto is sure to become a beloved part of your culinary routine.
I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to mine. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations and experiences. Happy cooking!
FAQs: Spicy Dill-Cilantro Pesto
Can I adjust the spice level of this pesto?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the number of hot peppers or remove their seeds before adding them to the recipe. On the flip side, if you love a good kick of heat, feel free to add an extra pepper or two.
How long does this pesto last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly in a clean, airtight jar and covered with a layer of olive oil, this pesto can last in the refrigerator for up to two months. Just make sure to use clean utensils when scooping out the pesto to prevent any contamination.
Is this pesto suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this pesto is completely vegan, as it contains no animal products. It’s made with fresh herbs, garlic, hot peppers, and olive oil, making it a flavorful and versatile option for vegans and vegetarians alike.
Can I make this pesto ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making this pesto ahead of time allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in an even more delicious final product. Plus, having a jar of homemade pesto on hand makes it easy to whip up quick and flavorful meals whenever the craving strikes.
Liked the recipe? Here are other recipes you might like:
Spicy Peanut Zoodle Salad
Cooks in 15 minutesGet ready to tantalize your taste buds with this Spicy Peanut Zoodle Salad! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish. With the crunch of fresh zucchini noodles and the kick of a spicy peanut sauce, it’s a delightful fusion of flavors that will leave you craving more. Perfect for those busy days when you need something healthy and delicious in a snap!
Sichuan Chili Oil
Cooks in 2 hours 15 minutesDive into the heart of Sichuan cuisine with this authentic Sichuan Chili Oil recipe! Perfect for enhancing your favorite dishes, this chili oil brings the vibrant heat and aroma that’s essential in many Chinese dishes. Whether you’re drizzling it over Mapo Tofu or spicing up a simple stir-fry, this homemade chili oil is a game-changer for any spicy food aficionado.
8-Minute Asian Peas Stir-Fry with Sesame Seeds
Cooks in 8 minutesGet ready to whip up a delightful 8-Minute Asian Peas Stir-Fry with Sesame Seeds! This vibrant dish is perfect for busy weeknights and brings a nutty, earthy flavor with the addition of roasted sesame seeds. It’s a simple, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy your veggies. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe will have you cooking like a pro in no time!
