Cilantro Pesto

INGREDIENTS

1 (16 ounce) package of farfalle or penne pasta
1 bunch or 2 packed cups fresh cilantro
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lime or lemon juice (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chopped and seeded serrano chile
1/2 cup walnuts or pine nuts
salt to taste
1/2 cup olive oil

DIRECTIONS

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta, and return water to a boil. Cook pasta for 8 to 10 minutes, or until al dente; drain well.
2. In an electric food processor or blender, blend cilantro, garlic, lime or lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, pepper, nuts, and salt. Add 1/4 cup of the olive oil, and blend the pesto. Add more olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
3. Pour pesto in a small saucepan and warm over low heat, stirring constantly, until pesto begins to simmer. Pour over cooked pasta, toss and serve.

For more cilantro recipes and storage tips, go here!