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You can make so many delicious things with cilantro and onion, from fresh salsas and chutneys to hearty tacos and warming soups.
The cilantro and onion combo is one of those classic pairings that shows up in kitchens all over the world, and for good reason.
Cilantro brings a bright, herbal, slightly citrusy kick, while onion adds a savory punch that can be sharp and raw or sweet and caramelized.
Together, they create a flavor base that works in Mexican, Indian, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian cooking.
If you’ve ever found yourself with a big bunch of cilantro and a few onions and wondered what to make with cilantro and onion, you’re in the right place.
In this post, we’ll go over some of the best dishes you can make with cilantro and onion, plus a few tips to get the most out of this dynamic duo.
Let’s dive in.
What to Make with Cilantro and Onion: Classic Dishes
When you’re figuring out what to make with cilantro and onion, the options are nearly endless.
Here are some of the most popular and satisfying dishes that let this pairing shine.
1. Fresh Cilantro and Onion Salsa (Pico de Gallo)
Probably the most famous thing to make with cilantro and onion is pico de gallo.
It’s a simple, uncooked salsa made with diced tomatoes, white onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt.
The cilantro and onion are the backbone of the flavor, giving it that fresh, zesty taste that wakes up any dish.
You can spoon it over tacos, grilled chicken, fish, or just eat it with tortilla chips.
It’s a great way to use up a lot of cilantro and onion at once.
2. Cilantro and Onion Chutney
If you’re a fan of Indian food, you’ve likely had cilantro and onion chutney.
This vibrant green sauce blends fresh cilantro, onion, green chilies, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt into a smooth, tangy condiment.
It’s perfect with samosas, pakoras, kebabs, or even spread on sandwiches.
Some versions add grated coconut or roasted peanuts for extra richness.
It’s one of the best ways to make cilantro and onion the star of the show.
3. Tacos with Cilantro and Onion Topping
Street tacos are another classic answer to what to make with cilantro and onion.
After grilling or roasting your meat, you top it with a generous sprinkle of diced white onion and chopped cilantro.
A squeeze of lime and a splash of salsa complete the picture.
The raw onion and cilantro cut through the richness of the meat and add a fresh, crunchy contrast.
You can do this with carne asada, carnitas, grilled fish, or even roasted vegetables.
4. Cilantro and Onion Rice
Cilantro and onion rice is a simple side dish that packs a lot of flavor.
You sauté diced onion until soft, add rice, broth, and a big handful of chopped cilantro, then let it cook until fluffy.
The onion mellows out and sweetens, while the cilantro infuses the rice with its fresh, herbal aroma.
It’s a great accompaniment to grilled meats, beans, or any Mexican-inspired meal.
More Creative Ways to Use Cilantro and Onion
Beyond the classics, there are plenty of other creative ways to use cilantro and onion in your cooking.
Here are a few ideas that might surprise you.
1. Cilantro and Onion Soups and Stews
Adding cilantro and onion to soups and stews is a fantastic way to build layers of flavor.
Onion often serves as the base, sautéed at the start to create a savory foundation.
Cilantro, on the other hand, is usually added near the end to preserve its fresh taste.
Try it in chicken soup, lentil soup, or a spicy tomato-based stew.
The combination adds depth and brightness that simple seasonings can’t match.
2. Cilantro and Onion Salads
You can also make a simple salad that highlights cilantro and onion.
Toss thinly sliced red onion with chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
Let it sit for a few minutes so the onion softens slightly and the flavors meld.
This salad is great on its own or as a topping for grilled fish, steak, or tacos.
It’s fresh, tangy, and incredibly easy to make.
3. Cilantro and Onion Marinades
Blend cilantro, onion, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and your favorite spices into a marinade.
Use it for chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu.
The onion breaks down and tenderizes the protein, while the cilantro leaves behind its bright, herbal notes.
Grill or roast the marinated protein for a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
4. Cilantro and Onion Guacamole
Guacamole is another dish where cilantro and onion are essential.
Mash ripe avocados with diced onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
The onion adds a sharp bite, while the cilantro brings freshness.
You can also add diced tomato or jalapeño for extra kick.
It’s a party favorite and one of the tastiest ways to enjoy cilantro and onion together.
Tips for Cooking with Cilantro and Onion
To get the best results when you make something with cilantro and onion, keep these tips in mind.
1. Use Fresh Cilantro
Cilantro loses its flavor quickly when cooked, so add it at the end of cooking or use it raw.
Look for bright green leaves with no signs of wilting or yellowing.
Wash it well and dry it before chopping.
2. Choose the Right Onion
Red onion is great for raw applications like salsas and salads because of its color and mild heat.
White onion is classic for Mexican dishes and has a sharper bite.
Yellow or sweet onions are better for cooking, as they caramelize beautifully and become sweet.
3. Balance the Flavors
Cilantro and onion are both bold ingredients, so balance them with acid (like lime or lemon), salt, and a little fat (like olive oil or avocado).
This keeps the flavors harmonious and prevents either one from overpowering the dish.
So, What to Make with Cilantro and Onion?
What to make with cilantro and onion really comes down to your mood and what’s in your kitchen.
You can make fresh salsas, chutneys, tacos, rice, soups, salads, marinades, and guacamole.
The cilantro and onion combo is versatile, affordable, and packed with flavor.
Whether you’re cooking Mexican, Indian, or just experimenting, these two ingredients can transform a simple meal into something special.
So next time you have a bunch of cilantro and an onion on hand, you’ll know exactly what to make with cilantro and onion.