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Cilantro-Citrus Pesto

Makes ½ cup -- enough for 8 ounces pasta -- 4 servings

For an unusual Asian-flavored light main course, toss this vibrantly flavored pesto with thin Chinese wheat-flour noodles and top with sautéed or grilled shrimp.


1 cup fresh cilantro sprigs, tender stems included
¼ cup minced shallots
2 tablespoons roasted peanut oil (see Tip)
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
1 teaspoon Chinese chili paste with garlic, or to taste
Dash of freshly ground pepper, or to taste
Dash of salt, or to taste
Finely chopped dry-roasted, unsalted peanuts and sprigs of fresh cilantro for garnish

Put all of the ingredients into a food processor; process until the mixture is nearly smooth.

Toss with hot freshly cooked noodles. Taste and adjust the seasoning.



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