This Roasted Jalapeno Cilantro Manchego Pesto is one of my favorite pestos, I could literally sit and eat it by the spoonful! A Mexican/Spanish twist on an Italian classic that is delightfully spicy and bursting with flavor!
This pesto is relatively spicy depending on the heat of the jalapeños. If you like really spicy food, you can leave the seeds in the jalapeños. If not, then remove them all along with the ribs.
This pesto pairs nicely with a light Pinot Noir, Riesling, Pinot Gris or a white Rioja.
Roasted Jalapeno Cilantro Manchego Pesto - CaliZona
Ingredients
- 5 - 8 Jalapeno
- 3 Cups Cilantro Leaves
- 1 Cup Manchego Cheese
- 1 Cup Raw Walnuts
- 1/2 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 - 2 Cloves Garlic
- 2 Tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1/2 Teaspoon Sea Salt - or to taste
Instructions
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Wash the peppers then line them in the center of a baking sheet.
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Turn the oven to broil and place the baking sheet on the top shelf of the oven and broil for 4 – 5 minutes.
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Flip over and broil 3 – 4 minutes until they are well charred.
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Peel off the skin with a paper towel by rubbing off the charred skin, cut off the stem then cut in half and de-seed.
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Measure and combine everything into a food processor or blender and puree.
Health Benefits:
Jalapeno peppers are a rich source of vitamin C, 1 pepper provides 18 % of the daily value for men and 23 % for women. They also have a good amount of vitamin A, which helps skin and eye health. Jalapenos contain phenols, flavonoids and capsaicinoids that help the body fight free radicals, inflammation and promote weight loss. The bioflavonoids are powerful antioxidants and help strengthen blood vessels. They also fight nasal congestion by stimulating secretions that help clear mucus from the nose. They contain more vitamin B6 aiding the immune system, E that protects the cells and K, which increases bone mass, than any other pepper.
Cilantro is an extreme anti-oxidant immune-booster that helps detoxify the body by loosening them from the tissue, binding to and pulling out toxins and heavy metals. It helps promote a healthy liver function and is an overall digestive aid. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory that may help symptoms of arthritis and joint pain. Cilantro can lower bad cholesterol level and increase the good cholesterol level. It also helps with insulin secretion and lowers blood sugar. It is rich in essential oils, vitamins and is one of the richest herbal sources for vitamin K and dietary fiber. It is also an excellent source of omega-3, omega-6 fatty acids and calcium.
