Soups & Stews > Soup & Stew Garnishes > Fresh Herbs > Chopped Cilantro

Cilantro-Lime Garnish

A zesty and refreshing garnish that combines the bright flavor of fresh cilantro with the tang of lime, adding a vibrant dimension to soups and stews.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Servings
Varies
Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup, packed Fresh Cilantro
  • 1 Lime

Selecting Ingredients

Choose fresh, bright green cilantro and a firm lime with a smooth, unblemished skin. The lime should feel heavy for its size, indicating it's juicy.

Zesting the Lime (Optional)

For extra lime flavor, zest the lime before juicing it. Use a microplane or fine grater to remove the outer layer of the lime's peel, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith. Add the zest to the chopped cilantro.

Juicing the Lime

Cut the lime in half and juice it. Remove any seeds. You'll need about 1-2 tablespoons of lime juice.

Chopping the Cilantro

Thoroughly wash and dry the cilantro. Chop the cilantro finely. Discard any tough stems.

Combining the Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the chopped cilantro and lime juice (and zest, if using). Mix well.

Garnishing Your Soup or Stew

Add the cilantro-lime garnish to your soup or stew just before serving. Stir gently to incorporate the flavors or sprinkle on top. The lime juice will add a bright acidity that balances rich flavors.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

This garnish is very low in calories and fat. Cilantro is a good source of vitamins A and K, and lime provides vitamin C.

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Consider lime juice acidity if there's stomach sensitivity.

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FAQ

  • Can I prepare this garnish ahead of time?

    It's best to prepare this garnish just before serving to prevent the cilantro from wilting and the lime juice from losing its vibrancy. If you must prepare it ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than a few hours.
  • Can I add other ingredients to this garnish?

    Yes, you can customize this garnish to your liking. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or a minced clove of garlic for a bolder flavor. Finely diced red onion can also add a nice bite.
  • What types of soups and stews does this garnish pair well with?

    This cilantro-lime garnish pairs particularly well with Mexican-inspired soups and stews, such as tortilla soup, chicken tortilla soup, and black bean soup. It also complements seafood stews and creamy vegetable soups.