How long does it take to make Spicy Cilantro Pesto Pasta?
This recipe takes approximately 25 min total.
25 min
· Serves 2
· Updated June 26, 2026
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Cilantro microgreens are best added fresh as a finishing ingredient. This pasta dish features a spicy twist with cilantro microgreens in the pesto, providing a fresh and aromatic experience. Inspired by the bold flavors seen at The Lighthouse Restaurant & Lounge.
This recipe takes approximately 25 min total.
Cilantro microgreens work best as a fresh finishing ingredient, adding color, texture, and a just-cut flavor that stands out right before serving.
8 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta
1 cup cilantro microgreens
1/4 cup walnuts
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup olive oil
Salt to taste
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a food processor, combine cilantro microgreens, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, red pepper flakes, and salt. Process until finely chopped.
With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the pesto, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra cilantro microgreens and Parmesan cheese.
Cilantro and cilantro microgreens carry the same volatile aromatic profile — linalool, geraniol, and related terpenoid compounds — and are used as a fresh finishing element in tacos, pho, salsas, and composed plates. Research on cilantro focuses primarily on its essential oil composition and antioxidant activity.
• Cilantro and cilantro microgreens contain volatile aromatic compounds including linalool that have been studied for antioxidant activity.
moderate evidence• Fresh cilantro microgreens deliver the same aromatic compounds as mature leaves in a smaller, more visually refined garnish format.
strong evidence• Flavor and aroma intensity in cilantro microgreens vary by seed source, growing temperature, and harvest timing.
strong evidence1. Assessment of Vitamin and Carotenoid Concentrations of Emerging Food Products: Edible Microgreens — Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2012
2. Microgreens: Production, Shelf Life, and Bioactive Components — Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 2017