Cilantro is a staple herb in Mexican cooking. Its bright, fresh flavor adds a burst of freshness to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re making salsas, tacos, or soups, cilantro brings an irresistible taste that elevates the dish. If you’re wondering how to make the best use of fresh cilantro in your Mexican recipes, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to incorporate cilantro into your cooking.
1. Add Cilantro to Salsas
Salsas are one of the most popular ways to enjoy fresh cilantro in Mexican cuisine. Cilantro adds a fresh, citrusy note that balances the heat from the chiles. Whether you’re making a simple tomato salsa or a green salsa with tomatillos, a handful of chopped cilantro will take it to the next level. You can also use cilantro in fruit-based salsas, like mango or pineapple salsa, for a touch of freshness.
Quick Tip:
For a vibrant, tangy salsa, blend cilantro with lime juice, onions, garlic, and your favorite chile peppers.
2. Use Cilantro in Tacos and Burritos
Cilantro is a classic topping for tacos and burritos. After grilling or frying your choice of meat, such as carne asada, carnitas, or grilled chicken, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top. This adds not only a bright green color but also a fragrant flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Quick Tip:
For added freshness, combine cilantro with finely diced onions and squeeze some lime juice on top of your tacos.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro lime rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with any Mexican meal. To make it, cook your rice as usual and then stir in freshly chopped cilantro and lime juice at the end. This quick side adds a refreshing, tangy element to your plate and pairs well with dishes like burritos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.
Quick Tip:
For extra flavor, add a little garlic and chicken broth while cooking the rice.
4. Top Your Guacamole with Cilantro
Cilantro is a key ingredient in guacamole, and it’s what gives this creamy dip its characteristic flavor. When making guacamole, mash ripe avocados and mix in cilantro, lime juice, diced onions, and tomatoes. This simple addition brightens the flavor and adds an extra burst of freshness. If you want, you can also sprinkle some cilantro on top as a garnish.
Quick Tip:
For a more complex flavor, try adding a pinch of roasted garlic along with the cilantro.
5. Use Cilantro in Soups and Stews
Cilantro is a fantastic herb to stir into soups and stews. It adds an aromatic layer of flavor that complements the savory, hearty ingredients. Mexican soups like pozole, sopa de tortilla, and caldo de pollo often feature cilantro as a garnish. Stirring fresh cilantro into these dishes right before serving adds a refreshing and slightly peppery flavor that balances the richness of the broth.
Quick Tip:
For a boost of flavor, add cilantro at the end of cooking to preserve its fresh taste.
6. Make a Cilantro Pesto
Cilantro pesto is a twist on the traditional basil pesto. This flavorful sauce can be used in a variety of Mexican dishes, such as grilled chicken, tacos, or even pasta. To make cilantro pesto, blend fresh cilantro with garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and a handful of nuts like pine nuts or almonds. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes to give it some heat.
Quick Tip:
Serve cilantro pesto as a topping for grilled meats or drizzled over a salad for a fresh, tangy kick.
7. Cilantro in Mexican-Style Salad
Cilantro can also be used in fresh salads to add a burst of flavor. A simple Mexican-style salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions is made even better with the addition of chopped cilantro. Top it with a tangy lime dressing and some chili powder for a refreshing side dish.
Quick Tip:
Add a few avocado slices to your salad for extra creaminess and flavor!
8. Cilantro-Infused Marinades
Cilantro is a great addition to marinades for meats and fish, giving them a fresh, zesty flavor. You can blend cilantro with lime juice, garlic, chili powder, and olive oil to create a marinade for carne asada, chicken, or shrimp. Let the protein soak up the flavors for about 20 to 30 minutes before grilling or cooking.
Quick Tip:
For a richer marinade, add a little honey or agave syrup for a touch of sweetness.
9. Cilantro in Tostadas
Tostadas are crispy tortillas topped with beans, meat, cheese, lettuce, and other ingredients. Fresh cilantro can be sprinkled on top to add a flavorful, fragrant element. The cilantro works perfectly with the creamy refried beans, crispy tostada, and juicy toppings like tomatoes and avocado.
Quick Tip:
For a quick tostada, use store-bought tostada shells and layer them with your favorite toppings, finishing with a sprinkle of cilantro.
10. Cilantro in Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
One of the best ways to enjoy cilantro is by adding it to Mexican street corn, or elote. After grilling the corn on the cob, slather it with mayo, sprinkle it with Cotija cheese, chili powder, and finish with a squeeze of lime. Top with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and a fragrant, fresh flavor.
Quick Tip:
Add a little cilantro to the mayonnaise mixture for extra flavor before spreading it on the corn.
Conclusion: Bring Freshness with Cilantro
Cilantro is a versatile herb that can be used in so many Mexican recipes. From salsas to tacos, soups to salads, its bright and fresh flavor enhances a wide variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking to add a burst of color or a burst of flavor, fresh cilantro is the perfect ingredient to have on hand for your next Mexican meal. So next time you’re cooking, don’t forget to include this delicious herb!
