– 10 sprigs cilantro fresh or frozen
Cilantro is low in calories and provides vitamin K, vitamin A, and antioxidants; it is also a source of dietary fiber and minerals including manganese and potassium.
About
Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) is the leafy herb derived from the coriander plant, native to the eastern Mediterranean and South Asia. The plant produces distinctive flat, lacy leaves with a bright green color and a thin, delicate structure. Cilantro possesses a distinctive flavor profile that is polarizing among consumers—characterized by fresh, citrusy, and slightly peppery notes for those with the common taste receptors, though a genetic variant causes a subset of the population to perceive a soapy or chemical taste due to the presence of aldehydes in the leaves. The herb is also known as Chinese parsley or Mexican parsley in various culinary traditions.
Culinary Uses
Cilantro is widely used as a fresh herb in Latin American, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines, typically added raw or at the end of cooking to preserve its delicate flavor and aromatic qualities. It appears as a garnish and flavor component in curries, salsas, chutneys, pho, tacos, and ceviche, where its bright citrus notes complement both spicy and acidic dishes. The herb pairs well with lime, cumin, garlic, and chili, and is essential in many Mexican, Indian, and Vietnamese dishes. Cilantro can also be blended into sauces, marinades, and dressings, though prolonged cooking diminishes its characteristic flavor.