Chopped Cilantro
Coriandrum sativumClinical Encyclopedia
Chopped cilantro, also known as coriander, is a popular herb used in various cuisines worldwide. It is known for its fresh, citrusy flavor and is rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
Macronutrient Ratio
Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g
Micronutrient DV% Score
Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value
Complete Micronutrient Breakdown
Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.
Vitamins
Minerals
Health Benefits
Possible Risks & Side Effects
How to Prepare & Consume
Fresh cilantro can be used in salads, salsas, and as a garnish. It is best added at the end of cooking to preserve its flavor.
Smart Selection & Storage
Choose fresh cilantro with vibrant green leaves and no wilting or yellowing.
Store in the refrigerator, wrapped in a damp paper towel or in a glass of water, to maintain freshness.
Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds
Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.
Known for its calming effects and potential anti-anxiety properties.
May help in reducing blood sugar levels.
"Cilantro is one of the oldest herbs used in cooking, dating back to ancient Egypt."
Myths vs Realities
Healthy Recipes
Cilantro-Lime Quinoa Salad
A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with chopped cilantro, lime juice, and colorful veggies, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped cilantro, diced bell peppers, and red onion.
- 2. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper.
- 3. Toss gently to combine and serve chilled.
Cilantro Pesto Zoodles
A vibrant twist on traditional pesto, this cilantro pesto is blended with zucchini noodles for a low-carb, nutrient-packed meal.
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 1 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt to taste
- 1. In a food processor, blend chopped cilantro, walnuts, olive oil, garlic, and salt until smooth.
- 2. Toss the spiralized zucchini with the cilantro pesto until well coated.
- 3. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.
Cilantro Chicken Lettuce Wraps
These healthy lettuce wraps are filled with spiced chicken and topped with a cilantro-lime sauce for a burst of flavor.
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp cumin
- Lettuce leaves for wrapping
- 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground chicken until browned.
- 2. Stir in cumin, lime juice, and half of the chopped cilantro.
- 3. Spoon the chicken mixture into lettuce leaves and top with remaining cilantro before serving.
Cilantro Avocado Smoothie
A creamy and nutritious smoothie featuring avocado and chopped cilantro, perfect for a refreshing breakfast or snack.
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
- Ice cubes
- 1. In a blender, combine avocado, spinach, chopped cilantro, almond milk, and honey.
- 2. Add ice cubes and blend until smooth.
- 3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Cilantro and Black Bean Tacos
These hearty tacos are filled with black beans, corn, and fresh cilantro, making them a delicious and healthy vegetarian option.
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Corn tortillas
- Lime wedges for serving
- 1. In a bowl, mix black beans, corn, chopped cilantro, and chili powder.
- 2. Warm corn tortillas in a skillet.
- 3. Fill each tortilla with the black bean mixture and serve with lime wedges.
Chili-Cilantro Grilled Shrimp
Succulent shrimp marinated in a chili-cilantro sauce and grilled to perfection, making for a healthy and flavorful dish.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
- 1. In a bowl, mix chopped cilantro, olive oil, chili powder, lime juice, and salt.
- 2. Add shrimp and marinate for 30 minutes.
- 3. Grill shrimp on skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through.
Cilantro-Infused Cauliflower Rice
A low-carb alternative to rice, this cauliflower rice is infused with cilantro and lime for a flavorful side dish.
- 1 head cauliflower, grated into rice-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and add grated cauliflower, cooking for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- 2. Stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
- 3. Serve warm as a side dish.
Cilantro Yogurt Dip
A creamy and zesty yogurt dip made with chopped cilantro, perfect for serving with fresh veggies or whole-grain crackers.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- 1. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and salt.
- 2. Mix well until smooth.
- 3. Serve chilled with veggies or crackers.
Cilantro and Tomato Salsa
A fresh and zesty salsa made with ripe tomatoes and chopped cilantro, ideal for topping grilled meats or enjoying with tortilla chips.
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
- 1. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt.
- 2. Mix well and let sit for 15 minutes to meld flavors.
- 3. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled dishes.
Cilantro Chickpea Salad
A protein-packed salad featuring chickpeas, chopped cilantro, and a tangy dressing, perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.
- 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a bowl, combine chickpeas, chopped cilantro, cucumber, and red bell pepper.
- 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is cilantro used for?
Cilantro is commonly used in salads, salsas, and as a garnish for various dishes.
Is cilantro good for health?
Yes, cilantro is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, which can contribute to overall health.
Can you eat cilantro stems?
Yes, cilantro stems are edible and flavorful, often used in cooking.
How do you store fresh cilantro?
Store fresh cilantro in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel or in a glass of water.
Is cilantro the same as coriander?
Yes, cilantro refers to the leaves, while coriander refers to the seeds of the same plant.
Can cilantro help with digestion?
Cilantro may aid digestion due to its antimicrobial properties.
How much cilantro should I use?
Use cilantro to taste, typically a handful for salads or salsas.
Is cilantro safe during pregnancy?
Cilantro is generally safe in culinary amounts during pregnancy, but consult a healthcare provider for specific concerns.