Cilantro Jalapeno Pesto

So this pesto is probably one of my favorite things ever. I literally put it on everything and anything..its just that good. Its perfect, a little bit of heat from the jalapeno peppers and the nice cooling of the cilantro (not to mention that plethora of amaaaaazing health benefits cilantro has to offer!). Some of my favorite ways to have it are on sandwiches, chilis, on vegetables, mixed into hummus, and even just as a simple dip. Its not too spicy, but if you really don't like spice the heat level can be brought down by adding a few table spoons of cream cheese. Try this one out, it is a perfectly delicious spring detox recipe!

Cilantro Jalapeno Pesto


-3 Cups cilantro, stems removed and roughly chopped
-5-6 jalapeno peppers, stems and seeds removed, and chopped in half
-1/2 Cup parmasan cheese
-3 Cloves of Garlic
-Olive Oil
-Salt
-Pepper

Directions:
1. Place jalapeno, cilantro, parmasan cheese and garlic in a food processor. Process a few times until everything is roughly chopped up.
2. Drizzle in olive oil while blending until the pesto is smooth
3. Season to taste with salt and pepper

Health Benefits!!
Garlic- Contains allicin, an incredibly medicinal component, especially in raw garlic (like in this recipe!) Allicin can help prevent high blood pressure, aid in digestion, aid in inflammation reduction, help prevent and cure cold, and much much more!
Cilantro-Powerful anti-inflammatory capacities that may help symptoms of arthritis, Protective agents against bacterial infection from Salmonella in food products, Acts to increase HDL cholesterol (the good kind), and reduces LDL cholesterol (the bad kind), Relief for stomach gas, prevention of flatulence and an overall digestive aid, Wards off urinary tract infections, Helps reduce feelings of nausea, Eases hormonal mood swings associated with menstruation, Has been shown to reduce menstrual cramping, Adds fiber to the digestive tract, A source of iron, magnesium, and is helpful in fighting anemia, Gives relief for diarrhea, especially if caused by microbial or fungal infections, Helps promote healthy liver function, Reduces minor swelling, Strong general antioxidant properties, Disinfects and helps detoxify the body, Stimulates the endocrine glands, Helps with insulin secretion and lowers blood sugar, Acts as a natural anti-septic and anti-fungal agent for skin disorders like fungal infections and eczema, Contains immune-boosting properties
Acts as an expectorant, Helps ease conjunctivitis, as well as eye-aging, macular degeneration, and other stressors on the eyes.
Jalapeno- super high in vitamin C, one pepper contains over a days amount of the vitamin. Also high in vitamin K, A, potassium, iron, zinc, copper and manganese, high in antioxidants, and capciasin to help boost the metabolism and detox the body.


Sources:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/409721-what-are-the-health-benefits-of-jalapeno-peppers/
http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/health-benefits-of-garlic.html

http://ybertaud9.wordpress.com/2012/04/07/cilantro-pesto-removes-heavy-metals-health-benefits/#comments