Gelatin Free Cilantro, Mint & Pistachio Pesto
Bright, herby, and just a little unexpected, this pesto swaps the usual basil and pine nuts for a bold combination of fresh cilantro, mint, and dry-roasted pistachios. The result is a vibrant green sauce with real depth — earthy from the cumin, punchy from the lime, and rich from the olive oil and pistachios working together. It comes together entirely in a food processor with no cooking required, which means you get maximum freshness with minimal effort. Since every ingredient here is a whole, recognizable food, there's no need to scrutinize labels for hidden additives or thickeners that can sneak into store-bought condiments and sauces. Spoon it over grilled chicken or fish, toss it through pasta, spread it on flatbread, or use it as a dipping sauce — it's genuinely versatile. A pinch of red pepper flakes at the end gives it a gentle kick if you want to dial up the heat. Make a jar on Sunday and you'll find yourself reaching for it all week.
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
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems, loosely packed
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed
- ½ cup dry-roasted pistachios, unsalted
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- ¼ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Add the pistachios and garlic to the bowl of a food processor and pulse 8–10 times until the pistachios are coarsely broken down and the garlic is finely chopped.
- 2
Add the cilantro, mint, lime juice, lime zest, cumin, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using. Pulse another 8–10 times until the herbs are finely chopped and the mixture looks uniformly crumbly.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!