Cilantro

Details

Cilantro is the leaves of the coriander plant (its seeds are the coriander spice). Cilantro is an herb that has fiercely divided opinions for and against—those who like it use it everywhere; those who dislike it sometimes say it tastes like soap. It’s best in the cooler weather of spring, early summer and fall. The heat of summer can change the flavor.

Look for bright green leaves and stems that have not begun to wilt. It stores best if purchased with roots attached. If growing at home, harvest it weekly to keep the plant from bolting, leaving a few leaves on the stem so it will regenerate.

Nutrition: Rich in antioxidants and is thought to decrease bad cholesterol while increasing good cholesterol. Also a good source of potassium, iron, magnesium, folic acid, vitamins A and C and others.