Herb, Garnish | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Cilantro

Coriandrum sativum Allergen-Free
cilantro

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Apiaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mexican, Indian, Southeast Asian, Middle Eastern
  • Seasonality Spring, Summer, Fall (fresh), Year-Round (dried/ground)
  • Source Cilantro Plant Leaves

The Forktionary Angle

"The polarizing yet powerful herb, capable of transforming dishes with its vibrant, fresh, and complex aroma."

Definition

An aromatic herb with bright green, delicate leaves, widely used in Mexican, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines for its fresh, pungent flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteFresh, Citrusy, Pungent, Slightly Peppery
TextureDelicate, Tender
AromaBright, Green, Citrus, Earthy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Optimal Usage

Add fresh at the end of cooking for best flavor.

Storage Tip

Store stems in water, covered loosely with plastic, in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Water Content

~92.2%

Nutrition Facts

Per 4g (1/4 cup chopped)
Calories23
Total Fat0.5 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein2.1 g
Total Carbohydrate3.7 g
Dietary Fiber2.8 g
Total Sugars0.9 g
Calcium67 mg
Iron1.8 mg
Potassium521 mg

Chef’s Secret

For maximum flavor, add fresh cilantro at the very end of cooking or as a garnish, as its delicate compounds quickly degrade with heat.

Substitutions

Best Match

Flat-Leaf Parsley

1:1

Similar color and texture, offers fresh herbaceous notes, but lacks cilantro's unique citrusy and pungent flavor.

Culantro

1:2

Stronger flavor than cilantro, often used in Caribbean cuisine. Use less for equivalent flavor intensity.

Mint

1:1

Provides a fresh, bright herbal note, but with a distinct, cooling, and sweet flavor profile.

Basil

1:1

Offers a fresh, aromatic, slightly peppery flavor, but is generally sweeter and less pungent than cilantro.

Buying Guide

Look for bright green, un-wilted leaves. Store in a jar of water in the fridge, covered loosely with a bag.

Flavor Pairings

Lime Chili Garlic Onions Avocado Tomatoes Seafood Chicken Lentils

Recipes Using Cilantro

Grilling Technique Low Sodium Low Carb

African Style Shish Kebab

Experience a vibrant taste of Africa with this exciting shish kebab recipe! Marinated in a zesty blend of yogurt, lemon, and herbs, succulent lamb, beef, or chicken is grilled to perfection alongside colorful vegetables. Serve with fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend barbecue.

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Refrigerator Course Main Ingredient Preparation

Amanda's Delicious Cilantro Potato Salad

This addictive cilantro-lime potato salad recipe was a runaway hit at a baby shower! Its unique, fresh flavors and crispy bacon topping will leave everyone wanting more. Don't skip the bacon—it's essential! This vibrant and flavorful salad is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or any summer gathering.

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Course 3 Steps Or Less Vegetarian Greens

Amy's Cilantro Cream Sauce

Dive into a vibrant flavor explosion with Amy's Cilantro Cream Sauce! This creamy, versatile sauce blends the bright zest of lime, the earthy warmth of cumin, and the herbaceous freshness of cilantro for an unforgettable taste sensation. Inspired by a beloved Allrecipes recipe and boasting hundreds of rave reviews, this sauce is incredibly easy to make and adaptable to your preferences. Perfect as a dip, a sauce for grilled fish, chicken, or vegetables, a zesty salad dressing, a creamy addition to mashed potatoes, or a unique pasta sauce – the possibilities are endless! Easily customizable, you can use low-fat alternatives or add green onions for extra flavor. Get ready to elevate your dishes with this vibrant and delicious sauce!

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60 Minutes Or Less Dietary Number Of Servings Equipment

Appetizer Cheese Tart

This award-winning cheese tart recipe, a Pillsbury Bake-Off champion from 1998, is now even lighter and easier to customize! We've halved the mayonnaise for a healthier twist, and you're free to add your favorite toppings to create a truly unique appetizer. Perfect for parties or a simple weeknight snack, this cheesy delight boasts a golden-brown crust and a creamy, flavorful filling. Get ready to impress!

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Low In Something Main Ingredient Chicken Cuisine

Arizona Chicken

This Arizona Chicken recipe is a quick and easy weeknight winner! Inspired by Busycooks.About.com, this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken breasts smothered in a vibrant salsa sauce. We've doubled the salsa for extra flavor – because who doesn't love more salsa? Get ready for a taste of the Southwest in just 30 minutes!

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Preparation Dietary Time To Make Main Ingredient

Arroz Verde Mexican Green Rice

Spice up your weeknights with this vibrant Arroz Verde! Our Mexican-inspired green rice recipe is a delicious twist on plain rice, bursting with fresh cilantro and zesty lime. While parboiled rice delivers the best texture, long-grain rice works in a pinch. Get ready for a flavor explosion that'll transform your tacos, burritos, or enjoy it as a side dish! Easy to make and utterly delicious.

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Course Pasta Rice And Grains 30 Minutes Or Less Preparation

Asian Chicken And Snow Pea Noodle Bowl

This vibrant and flavorful Asian Chicken & Snow Pea Noodle Bowl is a quick and easy weeknight meal! Tender chicken, crisp snow peas, and delicious noodles are tossed in a savory broth, making for a satisfying and healthy dish. Easily adaptable to your taste – substitute beef for chicken and beef broth for chicken broth to create a delicious beef noodle bowl! Vegetarian? Simply use tofu and vegetable broth instead of chicken and chicken broth. Customize your spice level and add extra bouillon for a richer flavor. Get ready for a culinary adventure in just 30 minutes!

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Dietary Chicken Time To Make Preparation

Asian Chicken Salad With Roasted Peanuts

Craving a vibrant and flavorful salad? This Asian Chicken Salad with Roasted Peanuts, inspired by Bon Appetit, is a quick and easy weeknight meal! Crispy roasted peanuts, juicy chicken, and a zesty ginger-cilantro dressing come together for a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

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Course Preparation Course Soups Stews

Asian Miracle Diet Soup

This Asian Miracle Diet Soup is a delicious and healthy way to lose weight! Packed with fresh vegetables, lean protein, and aromatic spices, this vibrant soup is surprisingly filling and satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a healthy weight-loss plan. Enjoy the incredible flavors of ginger, garlic, and a touch of spice in this easy-to-follow recipe.

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Equipment Fish Stove Top Healthy

Asian Salmon Cakes

Transform leftover salmon into sensational Asian Salmon Cakes! This recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy flaky salmon in a crispy panko crust with a vibrant Asian-inspired flavor profile. Perfect as a sandwich filling, served atop a fresh salad, or enjoyed as a standalone appetizer. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Time To Make Healthy 2 Low Saturated Fat Time To Make

Avocado And Black Bean Salad

This vibrant Avocado Black Bean & Corn Salad is the perfect summer dish, bursting with fresh flavors! Perfect for Cinco de Mayo celebrations or any time you crave a healthy and delicious meal. This recipe combines creamy avocado, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and a zesty lime dressing for an unforgettable taste. Easy to make in just 10 minutes, it's a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to impress.

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Healthy 2 Vegetables Preparation Healthy

Avocado Corn Salad

This vibrant Avocado Corn Salad is bursting with fresh flavors! Sweet corn kernels mingle with creamy avocado, zesty lime, and a touch of spice. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer. Made with fresh corn cut from the cob for the ultimate summery taste!

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Dietary Low In Something 15 Minutes Or Less Fruit

Avocado Tomato And Mango Salsa

This vibrant Avocado Tomato Mango Salsa is a taste of sunshine! Sweet mango, creamy avocado, and juicy tomatoes combine in a zesty explosion of flavor. Perfect as a topping for grilled fish, chicken, or served with crispy tortilla chips. A quick and easy recipe adapted from allrecipes, ready in under 45 minutes!

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Inexpensive Occasion Spicy Healthy

Awesome Healthy Black Bean Soup

This vibrant and flavorful black bean soup is packed with protein and nutrients! Perfect for a healthy weeknight meal, this recipe is easily customizable to your taste. Our perfected version boasts a creamy texture and a zesty kick, thanks to the addition of Rotel and fresh cilantro. Get ready to experience the ultimate black bean soup – delicious, nutritious, and surprisingly easy to make!

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Vegetarian Vegetarian Occasion Onions

Baigan Bhartha Eggplant Aubergine

Experience the fiery delight of Baingan Bhartha, a classic Indian vegetarian eggplant curry! This recipe elevates the traditional dish with a few modern twists, resulting in a smoky, flavorful masterpiece. Perfectly charred eggplant is combined with aromatic spices and succulent tomatoes for a curry that's both comforting and exciting. Serve it over fluffy rice or with your favorite Indian bread for a truly unforgettable meal.

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Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Preparation 3 Steps Or Less

Baked Chicken Taquitos

Craving crispy taquitos without the guilt? This baked version is a healthier, less messy alternative to deep-fried, delivering all the flavor and satisfying crunch you love! Made with juicy chicken, vibrant spices, and melty cheese, these taquitos are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer. Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal prep! Serve with your favorite salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for the ultimate flavor explosion.

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Seafood Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient

Baked Salmon With Lemon Oregano Crumb Topping

Flaky, juicy salmon baked to perfection under a crispy lemon oregano crumb topping! This easy 35-minute recipe is a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Elevate your salmon game with this flavorful and satisfying dish – perfect for a special occasion or a simple weeknight meal.

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Occasion Nuts Middle Eastern Small Appliance

Basil Cilantro And Macadamia Nut Chicken

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this incredible Basil Cilantro & Macadamia Nut Chicken recipe! Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor, then enjoy a quick 30-minute cook time. This vibrant dish is bursting with fresh herbs, crunchy macadamia nuts, and a zesty lime-yogurt sauce. Prepare it the night before for a truly effortless, delicious meal that will have you reaching for seconds!

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