Growing and Using Fresh Cilantro

Here at Gertens, we have a few quality tips for growing and using fresh cilantro. In fact, we guarantee that you won’t want to miss our favorite recipes with fresh cilantro included in this article!

How to Grow:

Prefers cool, sunny conditions. When soil temperatures exceed 75˚, the plant bolts and goes to seed. It's best to shade during the hottest part of the day. Water when soil is dry to the touch, fertilize once per month.

How to Use:

Chop off and discard thick stems. Use fine stems and leaves for cooking. Morning harvest is best. Cilantro will bolt/seed. Purchase new plant(s) mid-summer or seed every six weeks for a season-long harvest.

How to Enjoy:

Eat: Texas Caviar:

In a large bowl mix 1/2 medium onion (chopped), 1 chopped green bell pepper, 1 bunch chopped green onions, 2 chopped jalapeños, 1 tbsp minced garlic, 1 pint quartered cherry tomatoes, 1 - 8oz bottle zesty Italian dressing, 1 (15oz) can each -
black beans, and black eyed peas, 1/2 tsp coriander and 1 bunch chopped cilantro. Cover and chill for 2 hours - enjoy!

Eat: Gaucho Sauce:

In a food processor combine 1 tbsp chopped garlic, 3/4 bunch parsley and cilantro, 1 tbsp mint, 1/4 cup basil, 1 tsp red pepper flakes, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp lemon juice, 3 tbsp red wine vinegar. Whoozh up in processor and in a steady stream (while blade is running) add 4 cups olive oil. Serve with bread, as a salad dressing or on cold pasta.

Drink: Moon Mountain Green Glass:

Tear leaves from two sprigs of cilantro and drop into cocktail shaker. Fill shaker with ice, add 1 ½ oz (good) vodka, 3/4 oz lime juice, 1/2 oz simple syrup or agave nectar, add a dash of green tobasco. Shake it up.

Pour over fresh ice in a Tom Collins glass; garnish with lime & cilantro and enjoy!