Gourmet Coriander Pesto

While traditional pesto uses basil, Bitton's version features fresh coriander for a brighter, more aromatic flavour profile. It bridges Mediterranean and Asian cuisines beautifully - equally at home tossed through pasta or stirred into Asian-inspired dishes. The coriander provides citrusy, herbaceous notes that basil simply doesn't offer, making it more versatile across cuisines.

Refrigerate immediately after opening with the lid tightly sealed. Pour a thin layer of olive oil over the surface before sealing to prevent oxidation and browning. Use within 1-2 weeks for optimal freshness. Always use a clean spoon when serving to avoid contamination. If the surface darkens slightly, simply stir - it's oxidation, not spoilage.

Pesto is calorie-dense at approximately 80-100 calories per tablespoon due to oil and nuts. However, it provides healthy monounsaturated fats, not empty calories. A little goes a long way - one to two tablespoons typically suffices to flavour pasta or sandwiches. Used mindfully as part of a balanced diet, pesto's nutritional benefits outweigh concerns about calories.

Yes, coriander pesto freezes excellently. Freeze in ice cube trays for portioned use, then transfer frozen cubes to freezer bags. Alternatively, freeze in small jars with a layer of olive oil on top. It keeps for up to 6 months frozen. Thaw in the fridge overnight. The colour may darken slightly but flavour remains vibrant.

Basil pesto is sweet, herbal, and distinctly Mediterranean. Coriander pesto is brighter, more citrusy, and aromatic with a slightly peppery edge. Coriander works beautifully in both Mediterranean and Asian dishes, while basil is more traditional. Coriander's flavour is more assertive; some find it more complex. Both use similar bases (nuts, cheese, oil) but taste markedly different.