Pregnancy Friendly Cilantro Lime Pesto
Bright, herby, and packed with fresh flavor, this cilantro lime pesto is the kind of sauce that makes everything it touches taste more alive. Toasted pepitas stand in for the traditional pine nuts, bringing a nutty, slightly earthy depth while keeping the ingredient list simple and wholesome. That swap also matters during pregnancy, when you want to feel confident about every ingredient on the label — no obscure additives, no mystery oils, just real food you can trace back to its source. The lime juice and zest give it a citrusy lift, while a touch of cumin adds warmth without overwhelming the fresh cilantro. The jalapeño is completely optional, which makes it easy to dial the heat up or down depending on how your palate is feeling on any given day. Blend it onto pasta, swirl it into grain bowls, spread it over grilled chicken, or use it as a dip — it's endlessly versatile and comes together in just a few minutes with a food processor and a handful of pantry staples.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
- ⅓ cup raw pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
- 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems, loosely packed
- 1 clove garlic, roughly chopped
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- ¼ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1–2 tbsp water, as needed to thin
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Toast the pepitas in a small dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they begin to pop and turn golden, about 2–3 minutes. Watch closely, as they can brown quickly. Transfer to a plate and let cool for 2 minutes.
- 2
Combine the toasted pepitas, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, lime zest, cumin, and salt in a food processor or blender. Add the jalapeño, if using. Pulse 8–10 times until the mixture is coarsely chopped.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!