Herb, Leafy Green |

Cilantro Leaf

Coriandrum sativum Allergen-Free
Cilantro Leaf

The Forktionary Angle

"A polarizing yet essential herb, cilantro brings a burst of fresh, bright, and complex flavor that can elevate a dish or be entirely avoided, depending on the palate."

Definition

The fresh leaves of the coriander plant, widely used as an herb in Mexican, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines for its distinctive fresh, citrusy, and sometimes soapy flavor.

Technical Metrics

Best Storage

Stems in water, covered loosely in fridge

Genetic Taste Variation

OR6A2 gene linked to "soapy" taste

Global Usage (Regions)

Latin America, Asia, Middle East

Chef’s Secret

If you're sensitive to the "soapy" taste of cilantro, lightly toasting the seeds and using them as ground coriander spice can offer a similar aromatic profile without the objectionable notes. Also, chopping it just before serving preserves its volatile oils.

Buying Guide

Look for bright green, perky leaves without yellowing or wilting. Smell for freshness. Store properly to extend shelf life.

Flavor Pairings

Lime avocado onion garlic chili tomatoes fish chicken pork beans rice tacos curries.

Recipes Using Cilantro Leaf

Main Ingredient Thai Lime Dietary

A La Truck Shrimp

Experience the vibrant flavors of authentic Vietnamese street food with this easy A La Truck Shrimp recipe! Sweet, spicy, and savory, this dish is ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun weekend gathering.

See Complete Recipe
Short Grain Rice Short Grain Rice Shellfish Time To Make

Asian Risotto

Experience a flavor explosion with this Pacific Rim-inspired shrimp risotto! A comforting twist on a classic, this recipe boasts succulent shrimp, fragrant ginger and garlic, crunchy pine nuts, and fresh cilantro. Say goodbye to traditional risotto and hello to a vibrant, umami-rich dish that's quick to make and guaranteed to impress. Adapted from a local grocery store recipe.

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Seafood Shellfish Dietary

Asian Steamed Dumpling Filling

Unlock the secrets to unbelievably delicious Asian steamed dumplings with this chef-inspired recipe! Learned from a Benihana chef, this versatile filling works wonders with ground pork (classic!), succulent shrimp (a luxurious treat!), or lean ground turkey (our personal favorite!). Get ready to impress your family and friends with these juicy, flavorful dumplings – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

See Complete Recipe
Appetizers Time To Make Appetizers Course

Asparagus And Avocado Wraps

Guilt-free goodness! These Asparagus and Avocado Wraps are packed with flavor and nutrients. Avocados, rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and boasting three times the potassium of a banana, star alongside tender asparagus in these vibrant wraps. A recipe adapted from the Mayo Clinic Williams Sonoma Cookbook, this quick and easy meal is perfect for a healthy lunch or light dinner. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal that's as good for you as it is for your taste buds!

See Complete Recipe
Inexpensive Time To Make Stews Pork

Authentic Chili Verde Pork And Green Tomatillo Stew

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this Authentic Chili Verde Pork and Green Tomatillo Stew! Tender pork simmered in a rich sauce of tomatillos, fiery chiles, and aromatic spices creates a culinary masterpiece. This recipe is perfect for burrito bowls, tacos, or simply enjoyed with warm tortillas. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds straight to Mexico!

See Complete Recipe
Main Ingredient Mexican Main Ingredient Vegetables

Avocado Jalapeno Salad

Spice up your life with this vibrant and easy Avocado Jalapeño Salad! Perfect as a refreshing appetizer or a light side dish, this recipe is easily scaled for any gathering. The vibrant red jalapeños (or mild red bell peppers for those heat-sensitive) create a stunning visual appeal. Ready in just 5 minutes, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that's bursting with fresh flavor. Try it today! #avocadosalad #jalapeñosalad #appetizer #easyrecipe #mexicanfood #saladrecipe #5minutemeal

See Complete Recipe
Vegetables Low Carb Occasion Side Dishes

Avocado And Onion Salad

Escape to summer with this vibrant and refreshing layered avocado and onion salad! Inspired by Avocadosalad.com, this recipe features ripe avocados, juicy tomatoes, and crisp onions, all tossed in a zesty cilantro-lime dressing. Create a stunning layered presentation (as pictured!) or opt for a quick toss – perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe is easily customizable; use your favorite bell peppers and homegrown tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. Get ready for a taste of sunshine!

See Complete Recipe
60 Minutes Or Less Technique Course Main Ingredient

Bami Goreng

Transport yourself to the vibrant markets of Broome, Western Australia with this authentic Bami Goreng recipe! This exotic and flavorful Indonesian noodle dish is a true taste of the tropics, combining perfectly cooked noodles with crunchy vegetables, aromatic spices, and a touch of sweetness. A popular holiday destination, Broome's culinary scene is a highlight, and this recipe captures the essence of that experience. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this Bami Goreng is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

See Complete Recipe
Asian Time To Make Chicken Meat

Banh Mi Style Chicken Sandwich

Spice up your lunch routine with this flavorful Banh Mi-inspired chicken sandwich! A delicious twist on a classic, perfect for using leftover chicken or a quick weeknight meal. This recipe boasts a zesty blend of mayonnaise, hot sauce, crunchy veggies, and fresh herbs, all nestled in a crispy baguette. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

See Complete Recipe
Mexican Cinco De Mayo Labor Day Dips

Basic Guacamole

This incredibly flavorful Basic Guacamole recipe, originally from the Detroit Free Press, is a game-changer! A friend's weekend masterpiece, this guac is so incredibly delicious, it's officially my go-to recipe. Forget complicated steps; this simple recipe delivers perfectly chunky yet smooth guacamole every time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow guide to fresh, vibrant guacamole.

See Complete Recipe
Easy South American Preparation Beginner Cook

Basic Sofrito

Unlock the vibrant flavors of Latin cuisine with this essential Basic Sofrito recipe, adapted from the legendary Ingrid Hoffman's Latin Kitchen! Keep a jar of this fragrant magic in your fridge for an instant flavor boost to any dish – chicken, beef, pork, potatoes, beans, lentils, soups, and more! This versatile sofrito recipe is ready in minutes and will keep for up to a week, or freeze it in ice cube trays for easy portioning. Add a jalapeño for a fiery kick!

See Complete Recipe
Main Dish Main Ingredient Beef Crock Pot Slow Cooker

Beef With Cauliflower Crock Pot

This incredibly flavorful and healthy Beef with Cauliflower Crock Pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights! Tender beef and tender-crisp cauliflower simmer in a rich and aromatic sauce, creating a low-calorie, low-fat masterpiece. Skip the rice and enjoy it as is, topped with a dollop of sour cream (or Greek yogurt and cilantro for a lighter option) for a satisfying and comforting meal. Adapted from The Healthy Slow Cooker.

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Preparation Fish 60 Minutes Or Less

Beer Battered Mahi Mahi Soft Tacos W Coleslaw And Avocado Sauce

Dive into a taste of paradise with these incredible Beer Battered Mahi Mahi Tacos! Flaky, crispy mahi-mahi fillets are tossed in a light and bubbly beer batter, then flash-fried to golden perfection. Each taco is generously layered with a vibrant, crunchy coleslaw, a luscious homemade avocado sauce, and fresh cilantro. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend fiesta.

See Complete Recipe
Ground Beef Preparation Beef Main Ingredient

Best Albondigas Soup

This award-winning albondigas soup recipe, passed down from my mother-in-law, is a family favorite! It's rich, flavorful, and honestly, better than any restaurant I've tried. Tender meatballs simmered in a vibrant broth with fresh vegetables – get ready for a taste of comfort food perfection. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in under an hour.

See Complete Recipe