Latin ingredient of the week: Our 5 best cilantro recipes!

The last time that I had a bunch of cilantro, courtesy of my mami's garden, I made a really delicious goat cheese guacamole and topped off the whole thing with some chopped cilantro. Although the popular Latin herb is a common ingredient in the Mexican dip, there are actually plenty of other ways to use the green. In fact, I wanted to share our 5 best cilantro recipes with you to prove it!

I know that some people hate cilantro, but I'm a huge fan. The herb has some health benefits, like antioxidant properties, has been shown to have anti-anxiety effects, improve sleep quality, and may even have a blood sugar lowering effect.

Personally, I like to keep cilantro on hand by preserving the herb in olive oil. It's the easiest thing to do when you buy a large bunch but only use a little bit for your recipe. So, dig in, buy some cilantro and enjoy it in these recipes!

Read more ¿Qué más? Grow some Latin flavor with fresh cilantro from your herb garden

Image via Thinkstock

Guatemalan Chicken in Tomatillo-Cilantro Sauce

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This recipe, which we featured during our Hispanic Heritage Month coverage, is the traditional take on the Guatemalan jocón, also known as pollo en jocón.

Get the full recipe directions from MamásLatinas.

Tex Mex Quinoa Salad with Cilantro, Lime and Apricots

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If you want a healthier Latin recipe featuring the delicious cilantro, then why not go for this great fall salad that will help you lose weight? The combination of quinoa and cilantro is just divine!

Get the full recipe directions from MamásLatinas.

Cilantro Gnocchi with Tomatillo-Tomato Sauce

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Cilantro and tomatoes are a classic combination that works even more wonders since tomatoes are good for you (they can literally save your life!). This is my favorite take on the combo.

Get the full recipe directions from MamásLatinas.

Pork Sandwiches with Cilantro-Jalapeño Slaw

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Who doesn't love a burger with a Latin twist? I know I do! This one is definitely a favorite because, seriously, pork and cilantry and everything nice? Yes, please!

Get the full recipe directions from MamásLatinas.

Fettuccine with Tomatillo and Cilantro Pesto

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Part of our "5 Latin Fall dishes to make with the kids" story, this cilantro pesto is a creative take on what is typically considered an Italian dish. But, well, I like our version better!

Get the full recipe directions from MamásLatinas.