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You can make a lot of great things with mint and cilantro.
These two herbs are affordable, easy to find, and they pack a serious punch of fresh flavor.
If you’ve ever bought a big bunch of each and then wondered what to make with mint and cilantro before they wilt, you’re in exactly the right place.
The good news is that mint and cilantro pair beautifully together in drinks, sauces, salads, and even main dishes.
In this post, we’ll go over the best recipes and ideas for what to make with mint and cilantro so nothing goes to waste.
What to Make With Mint and Cilantro: Tasty Drinks and Beverages
One of the easiest ways to use up fresh mint and cilantro is to blend them into a refreshing drink.
Here are some of the best options.
1. Mint and Cilantro Limeade
This is one of the most popular things to make with mint and cilantro.
Just blend fresh mint leaves, cilantro leaves, lime juice, water, and a little sugar or honey.
Strain it over ice, and you have a bright, cooling drink that’s perfect for hot days.
The mint gives it a sweet, cool finish while the cilantro adds a subtle citrusy kick.
2. Mojito-Style Mocktails and Cocktails
A classic mojito uses mint, but adding a few cilantro leaves takes it to another level.
Muddle the herbs with lime and sugar, then top with soda water or rum.
This is a fun way to make something with mint and cilantro that will impress guests at your next gathering.
3. Green Smoothies
Toss a handful of mint and cilantro into your morning smoothie.
They blend well with spinach, banana, pineapple, and coconut water.
It’s a simple, healthy way to enjoy mint and cilantro without much effort.
What to Make With Mint and Cilantro: Sauces, Chutneys, and Dips
If you’re still figuring out what to make with mint and cilantro, sauces are a fantastic answer.
These herbs shine when blended into vibrant green condiments.
1. Cilantro Mint Chutney
This is a staple in Indian cooking and one of the best uses for mint and cilantro.
Blend the herbs with green chili, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
You can serve it with samosas, kebabs, or spread it on sandwiches.
It keeps well in the fridge for about a week, so it’s a smart way to use up a big batch.
2. Mint Cilantro Yogurt Dip
Mix chopped mint and cilantro into plain Greek yogurt.
Add a squeeze of lime, some garlic, and salt.
This makes a creamy dip that works great with chips, veggie sticks, or grilled meats.
It’s also a refreshing topping for tacos and wraps.
3. Green Chutney for Grilled Meats
Grilled chicken, lamb, or fish tastes amazing with a mint and cilantro chutney on the side.
The herbs cut through the richness of the meat and add a fresh, herby contrast.
This is a great reason to always keep mint and cilantro on hand.
What to Make With Mint and Cilantro: Salads, Rice, and Main Dishes
Beyond drinks and sauces, there are plenty of hearty dishes that use mint and cilantro.
Here are some ideas worth trying.
1. Herby Rice Pilaf
Stir chopped mint and cilantro into freshly cooked rice.
Add toasted almonds, raisins, and a squeeze of lemon.
This turns plain rice into something special and is a wonderful way to make a side dish with mint and cilantro.
2. Fresh Herb Salad
Combine mint and cilantro leaves with cucumber, tomato, red onion, and feta.
Dress it with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
This salad is light, crisp, and full of flavor, and it’s one of the quickest things to make with mint and cilantro.
3. Cilantro Mint Chicken or Fish
Marinate chicken or fish in a blend of mint, cilantro, garlic, lime, and olive oil.
Grill or pan-sear until cooked through.
The herbs infuse the meat with a fresh, zesty taste that’s hard to beat.
It’s a satisfying main dish that truly highlights what to make with mint and cilantro.
So, What to Make With Mint and Cilantro?
You can make drinks, chutneys, dips, salads, and main dishes with mint and cilantro.
These two herbs are incredibly versatile and work well in both sweet and savory recipes.
Whether you blend them into a cooling limeade, whip up a green chutney, or toss them into a rice pilaf, you’ll never run out of ideas for what to make with mint and cilantro.
So the next time you have a bunch sitting in your fridge, don’t let them wilt.
Pick a recipe, get cooking, and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors these herbs bring to your table.