Cilantro Pesto Sandwiches

I love fresh cilantro.  I love the unique fresh flavor it adds to Mexican and southwestern dishes and use it whenever I can.  I recently had some leftover cilantro and didn't want it to go to waste.  One great way to use it up is to make cilantro pesto.  I made some cilantro pesto and stored it in the freezer until I was ready to use it.

Cilantro pesto can be used in place of basil or parsley pesto for just about any recipe.  I thought it would be really good on a sandwich, and so that's what I made! I served these with some sweet potato fries and they were the perfect light and quick dinner for a warm night! 

For the pesto:

2 cups chopped cilantro leaves

2-3 cloves garlic, chopped

¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Place the cilantro and garlic in a food processor and process until coarsely chopped. With the motor running, slowly add the oil and cheese and process until smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

For the sandwiches:

Bread

Grilled chicken or other favorite meat (turkey would also be great)

Roasted peppers

Mozzarella cheese, sliced

Toast bread either under broiler or in the toaster.  Spread layer of pesto on each slice of bread.  Top with grilled chicken or other desired meat.  Top with roasted peppers and cheese.  Place under broiler until cheese is melted.  Serve either open faced style or closed like a traditional sandwich.

Source: Cilantro pesto adapted from Real Simple.  Sandwiches are a Simple Gourmet Cooking original.