Cilantro

Cilantro is used in various culinary applications, from being a fresh garnish to starring in sauces, marinades, and salads. Beyond cooking, some evidence suggests it has potential health benefits, including containing antioxidants, having antimicrobial properties, and possibly helping with anxiety and blood sugar management.  

Culinary uses

As a garnish:

Sprinkle chopped cilantro over dishes like soups, tacos, curries, eggs, and salads to add a fresh, citrusy flavor. 

In salsas and dips:

Finely chop and mix cilantro into salsas, guacamole, or hummus for an added layer of flavor. 

In sauces:

Use it to make fresh sauces like salsa verde, chimichurri, and cilantro-lime crema. 

In marinades and dressings:

Incorporate cilantro into marinades for meats or into homemade salad dressings. 

In rice and grains:

Add chopped cilantro and lime juice to cooked rice for a simple and flavorful side dish. 

In soups and stews:

Add cilantro towards the end of cooking to bring a fresh, aromatic quality to soups, stews, and curries. 

In salads and slaws:

Toss into salads or slaws for a burst of flavor. 

In baked goods:

Use it in savory baked items like fritters or incorporate it into a batter for pancakes. 

Other uses

Herbal oil and vinegar: Infuse apple cider vinegar with cilantro to create a flavorful and medicinal vinegar. 

Herbal cocktails: Add cilantro to cocktails for a fresh, herbal note. 

Freezing: For later use, purée cilantro with oil or water and freeze in ice cube trays. 

Potential health uses

Antioxidants: Cilantro contains antioxidants.

Antimicrobial properties: It has antimicrobial properties.

Blood sugar and weight management: Some studies suggest it may help manage blood sugar and weight.

Anxiety: Some evidence suggests it could help with anxiety symptoms.