Cilantro Pistachio Pesto – Vegan, Paleo & Gluten Free

I never met a diet I liked.
You’ve heard me say it before but I’ll say it again, what are the first three letters of diet?
DIE
Because truly that’s what I feel like. A little piece of me dies when I even consider a diet.
But, I will say, I know many people who use a diet as a way to get back on track for a short period of time.
Sort of like a kick in the butt to get them going.
Though I can’t say that’s for me, I do respect those who find this helpful for them and support them on their journey to accepting and embracing all foods.
With that said, this recipe was born out of respect for my Paleo loving friends.
I hate that the Paleo approved products cost an arm and a leg.
So, I gift you (and your wallet) this Cilantro Pistachio Pesto!

It certainly is much more economical and not only tastes divine on the Pistachio Turkey Meatballs, but also on a few of my other favorite dishes!
Turkey Burgers
Whip this up for your game day eats or simply because it’s Wednesday, whatever your heart desires!


Cilantro Pistachio Pesto
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup shelled roasted and salted pistachios
- 1 bunch cilantro leaves stems removed
- 2 small jalapeños seeds removed
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 lime juiced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a food processor or blender.
- Pulse until smooth, usually 30 to 40 seconds.
- Remove and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Use within 5 days for best quality.
Elizabeth Shaw says
Thanks for the feedback, John. The cilantro amount is about 1 1/2 cups of the herb.
Lauren Grant | Zestful Kitchen says
Gorgeous! Anything with pistachios and cilantro, I am in! Great idea for a unique pesto.
Elizabeth Shaw says
Ah thanks Lauren!
Lauren O'Connor says
I’ve always found it so clever and somewhat true – first three letters of diet “DIE” — like your letting a little of your spirit die inside with all the restriction, not to mention all the ill-effects of the stress. So agreed on that matter. And I’m loving this pesto – been wanted to use pistachios in something tasty and good.
Elizabeth Shaw says
Oh yay! Thanks Lauren for you comment and I couldn’t agree with you more– no more diet! 🙂 Hope you enjoy the recipe!