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Yes, pesto and cilantro go together beautifully, and this combination can elevate everything from pasta to sandwiches with a bright, herby kick.
If you’ve ever wondered whether pesto and cilantro go together, the short answer is absolutely—they share a fresh, vibrant profile that complements rather than clashes.
In this post, we’ll explore why pesto and cilantro go together, how to blend them, and some tasty ways to use the combo.
Let’s get into it.
Why Pesto and Cilantro Go Together
Pesto and cilantro go together because their flavors overlap in fresh, grassy, and slightly peppery notes.
Here’s why that pairing works so well.
1. They Share a Fresh, Herbal Base
Traditional pesto is made with basil, which has a sweet, aromatic, slightly anise-like flavor.
Cilantro, on the other hand, brings a citrusy, parsley-like punch with a hint of pepper.
When you combine pesto and cilantro, the basil and cilantro don’t fight—they layer.
The pesto provides a creamy, nutty, garlicky foundation, while cilantro adds a bright, zesty top note.
That’s why pesto and cilantro go together without overwhelming each other.
2. Pesto’s Richness Balances Cilantro’s Zing
Pesto is rich thanks to pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil.
Cilantro is light, almost sharp, with a distinct herbal edge.
When you mix pesto and cilantro, the fat in the pesto tames cilantro’s intensity.
Meanwhile, cilantro cuts through pesto’s heaviness so the combo doesn’t feel greasy.
This balance is exactly why pesto and cilantro go together in everything from dressings to marinades.
3. They Both Love Acid and Salt
Pesto and cilantro go together because they respond to the same flavor boosters.
A squeeze of lime or lemon makes both herbs pop.
A pinch of salt brings out their natural sweetness.
So when you season a pesto-cilantro mix, you’re enhancing both at once.
That shared affinity means you rarely need to adjust one without the other.
How to Combine Pesto and Cilantro
If you’re convinced that pesto and cilantro go together, here’s how to actually blend them in your kitchen.
1. Swap Some Basil for Cilantro in Pesto
The easiest way to enjoy pesto and cilantro together is to make a hybrid pesto.
Use your favorite pesto recipe but replace half the basil with fresh cilantro leaves.
Keep the pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil the same.
The result is a pesto that tastes familiar yet brighter, with a cilantro finish.
This is the simplest proof that pesto and cilantro go together.
2. Stir Cilantro into Store-Bought Pesto
No time to make pesto from scratch?
Just chop a handful of cilantro and fold it into jarred pesto.
Let it sit for 10 minutes so the flavors meld.
You’ll taste why pesto and cilantro go together—the cilantro wakes up the pesto’s sleepy basil notes.
This trick works for pasta, pizza, or even as a sandwich spread.
3. Use Cilantro as a Garnish on Pesto Dishes
If you’re not ready to mix them fully, start small.
Make a classic pesto pasta or pesto chicken.
Then sprinkle fresh cilantro on top just before serving.
The heat of the dish releases cilantro’s aroma, and you get a hit of both flavors in every bite.
That’s a gentle way to confirm that pesto and cilantro go together for your palate.
Delicious Ways to Enjoy Pesto and Cilantro Together
Now that you know pesto and cilantro go together, let’s look at some real-world uses.
1. Pesto-Cilantro Pasta
Cook your favorite pasta and toss it with a hybrid pesto made from basil and cilantro.
Add a squeeze of lime and some cherry tomatoes.
The pesto and cilantro coat every strand, and the lime keeps it fresh.
This is comfort food with a zesty twist.
2. Cilantro-Pesto Pizza
Spread a thin layer of pesto on pizza dough.
Top with mozzarella, chicken, and red onion.
After baking, shower the pizza with chopped cilantro.
The pesto and cilantro go together like a match made in heaven, especially with a drizzle of hot honey.
3. Pesto-Cilantro Marinade for Grilled Meats
Blend pesto with a big handful of cilantro, lime juice, and a little extra olive oil.
Use it as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
The pesto and cilantro go together to tenderize and flavor the protein.
Grill it, and you’ll get smoky, herby, citrusy perfection.
4. Cilantro-Pesto Salad Dressing
Whisk pesto with Greek yogurt, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
Thin it with a splash of water if needed.
Drizzle over a salad of greens, black beans, corn, and avocado.
Here, pesto and cilantro go together to create a creamy, tangy dressing that beats anything bottled.
5. Pesto-Cilantro Sandwich Spread
Mix pesto and chopped cilantro into mayo or cream cheese.
Spread it on a baguette with grilled veggies or turkey.
The pesto and cilantro go together to add a gourmet touch to a simple lunch.
It’s a small change that makes a big difference.
So, Do Pesto and Cilantro Go Together?
Yes, pesto and cilantro go together, and they can transform ordinary meals into something special.
Their flavors complement each other because pesto brings richness and cilantro brings brightness.
You can blend them into a hybrid sauce, stir cilantro into jarred pesto, or just garnish with cilantro.
From pasta to pizza to marinades, pesto and cilantro go together in more ways than you might expect.
Give it a try, and you’ll likely wonder why you didn’t pair them sooner.