Cilantro Pesto

I wanted a new twist on pesto. I happened to have an abundance of cilantro in my refrigerator and I don't know about you but I immediately think of making salsa or some sort of Asian-flavored dish. There is a lot more that can be done with cilantro. Cilantro makes a fantastic pesto and even though I had pine nuts in my freezer, I used peanuts instead because I wanted a stronger nut flavor to balance with cilantro's upfront personality. The result was delicious and I just had to share. Try it with pasta, rubbed on grilled fish or shrimp or as a base for a salad dressing. I'd love to hear what else you all do with it. Enjoy!

Cilantro Pesto
(makes about a cup)

2 bunches of cilantro cleaned and de-stemmed
1 clove garlic minced
¼ c. peanuts
¼ c. Parmesan cheese
½ c. olive oil

In a small food processor add cilantro, garlic, peanuts and Parmesan. Pulse a couple times to combine. Turn on food processor and slowly drizzle in olive oil. Turn off food processor and pour contents into a bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Taste for seasoning and adjust salt and pepper as necessary.