Cilantro–Pepita Green Magic Sauce

Chunky green cilantro pepita pesto in a rustic bowl, surrounded by cilantro leaves, lime, garlic, and pepitas on a wooden table in natural light.

Cilantro–Pepita Green Magic Sauce

A vibrant Latin-style green sauce bursting with fresh cilantro, nutty pepitas, and warm spices—perfect for pasta, rice, vegetables, tacos, or as a bold base for homemade aioli
Portions:1 A vibrant Latin-style green sauce bursting with fresh cilantro, nutty pepitas, and warm spices—perfect for pasta, rice, vegetables, tacos, or as a bold base for homemade aioli.
Preparation Time: 5 minuten
Cost$1.10 per serving
Share on Facebook Recept afdrukken

Equipment

  • blender or food processor
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • knife
  • Cutting board

Ingrediënten

  • 50 g fresh cilantro leaves 2 cups lightly packed
  • 138 g pepitas pumpkin seeds
  • 15 g minced garlic 1 tbsp
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 180 ml olive oil ¾ cup
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructies

  • Add cilantro, pepitas, minced garlic, paprika, and cayenne to blender.
  • Pour in olive oil.
  • Blend until smooth, scraping sides as needed.
  • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Serve immediately or refrigerate in airtight jar for up to 5 days.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Serving Tip:

Use as a topping for tacos, rice bowls, grilled vegetables, or whisk into vegan mayonnaise for a creamy aioli.

Wine Pairing:

Pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a citrus-forward Mexican-style beer for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 210 kcal | Carbohydrates: 5 g | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 20 g | Fiber: 2 g | Sugar: 0.5 g | Salt: 0.3 g
————————————————————————————————–
Recipe Category Condiments / no-bake / Sauce
Country Mexican
Season: All seasons

ABOUT THIS RECIPE

Cilantro Pepita Pesto Sauce brings a bold and vibrant twist to traditional basil pesto, inspired by rich Mexican flavors and ingredients that naturally complement spicy, citrusy, and smoky dishes. The combination of fresh cilantro and toasted pepitas creates a creamy, nutty base, while garlic, paprika, and cayenne add warmth and depth without overpowering the herbaceous profile. Its versatility makes it a staple condiment for everyday cooking — ready in only five minutes and made entirely without dairy.

This pesto is especially popular when paired with street-style tacos, roasted vegetables, or as a flavorful spread inside warm tortillas or sandwiches. It also works beautifully as a dressing for pasta salads or stirred into rice bowls for instant richness and color.

This sauce is a helpful addition to plant-based cooking because its texture and flavor replicate the richness of cheese without needing dairy ingredients. For more Latin-inspired recipes, explore complementary dishes on RecipeCollector.eu and build a menu that highlights fresh herbs, textures, and contrast on the plate.

Translate »