Cilantro, also known as coriander or Chinese parsley, is a versatile herb known for its distinct flavor and numerous health benefits. It is a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, particularly in salads. In this article, we will explore the history, nutritional profile, and various uses of cilantro in salads, as well as provide some delicious recipes for you to try.
Cilantro is a fragrant herb with a bright, citrusy flavor that adds a unique twist to salads. It is often used as a garnish or ingredient in various dishes, but its versatility makes it perfect for salads. Not only does it add a burst of flavor, but it also comes with numerous health benefits. Cilantro is rich in antioxidants, essential vitamins and minerals, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Including it in your salads can not only enhance the taste but also boost your overall health.
Types of Cilantro Commonly Used In Salads
There are two types of cilantro that are commonly used in salads – the fresh leaves and dried seeds. The fresh leaves are usually used as a garnish or chopped up and added to salads for a burst of flavor. The dried seeds, also known as coriander seeds, can be ground and used as a spice in dressings or marinades.
I’m not personally a big fan of cilantro, whenever I go to the burrito restaurants and the ingredients are shown for everyone to see, I have the tendency to leave out cilantro but have them put all the other ingredients in.
However does that mean everyone have a dislike for cilantro, of course not, so that is why this blog post is for you, the cilantro fan.
Adding Cilantro to a salad gives your salad a fresh, citrusy taste. The seeds however give the cilantro a flavorful, spicy, nutty taste
Cilantro when it comes to dressings pretty much has a category of its own. You can find Cilantro Lime Dressing, Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette, Avocado Cilantro Dressing, Lime Avocado Dressing, Cilantro Vinaigrette , Cilantro Ranch dressing and the El Pollo Loco creamy cilantro dressing.
There are also delicious salads such as Corn and Avocado salads, and Cilantro Salads with Lime and Quinoa.
Down below you will find my Top 13 salads with Cilantro.
Is Cilantro A Parsley ?
Cilantro and Parsley are leafy green herbs that might look very identical, as though they were cloned. However despite their similar appearance parsley has a taste that is more versatile, where has cilantro has a strong citrusy flavour. Some people even think cilantro is more of a soapy taste/
Putting Cilantro to use. Different Ways You Can Use Cilantro
- Put it in with sour cream, when you do that, you can use it to top soups, chili and stews
- Sprinkle Cilantro into some rice
- In a hurry, coleslaw is quick to make, use some cilantro
- Looking to beef up the flavour of stir fry, cilantro is a great use
- Have you even thought about putting cilantro on your bagels
13. Salad with cilantro and avocado : Add A Pinch
12. Salad with cilantro and mint : Alexandria Rocks
11. Little Broken : Chopped Mexican Salad with Honey Lime Cilantro Vinaigrette
10. BHG : Cilantro CUCUMBER MELON Salad
9. A Bountiful Kitchen : Southwest Salad with Cilantro Honey
8. The Stay at Home Chef : Cilantro Lime Orzo Pasta Salad
7. Plum Street Collective : Cilantro Lime Mexican Chicken Salad
6. The Kitchn : Avocado Pasta Salad
5. Chatelaine : Thai BASIL Cilantro Salad
4. Café Delites : Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with MANGO Avocado Salsa
3. Chew Out Loud : Southwestern Chopped Salad with Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing
2. The Recipe Critic : Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad
1 Erin Lives Whole : Mexican QUINOA Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing
Is Coriander and Cilantro The Same Thing
In the US, cilantro is the name for the leaves and stem of a plant, while coriander is the actual name of the dried seeds. Both however come from the Coriandrum sativum plant
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Pairing Cilantro With Other Ingredients To Create Unique and Flavorful Salads
Cilantro pairs well with a variety of other ingredients, making it a great addition to salads. It goes well with citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits, as well as vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers. It also pairs well with proteins like chicken, shrimp, and tofu.
Recipes For Popular Salads With Cilantro
Thai Cucumber Salad: Thinly slice cucumbers and mix with chopped cilantro, red onion, and peanuts. In a separate bowl, mix together lime juice, soy sauce, honey, and chili flakes. Pour over the cucumber mixture and toss to combine.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: Char corn on the cob and chop into bite-sized pieces. Mix with chopped cilantro, red onion, jalapeno, and crumbled feta cheese. In a separate bowl, mix together lime juice, mayonnaise, chili powder, and garlic powder. Pour over the corn mixture and toss to combine.
Tips For Properly Washing and Storing Cilantro For Salads
To properly wash cilantro, place it in a bowl of cold water and swirl it around. Any dirt or debris will fall to the bottom. Then, remove the cilantro from the water and pat it dry with paper towels. To store cilantro, wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. It should last for about a week.
Cilantro as a Substitute For Other Herbs in Salads
Cilantro can be used as a substitute for other herbs in salads, such as parsley or basil. It provides a unique flavor and can add a twist to traditional salad recipes.
Exploring The Different Flavor Profiles of Cilantro
Cilantro has a unique flavor profile that adds a refreshing and citrusy taste to salads. However, it also has a slightly spicy and earthy undertone, making it a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes.
Conclusion
Highlighting the versatility, flavor, and health benefits of using cilantro in saladsIn conclusion, cilantro is a versatile herb that adds a unique and delicious flavor to salads. Its rich history and cultural significance make it a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world. With its numerous health benefits and ability to pair well with various ingredients, cilantro is a must-try in salads. So next time you’re looking to add some zest to your salad, don’t forget to reach for the cilantro
