Sprinkle some magic on your sad leftover coriander and watch it shine in delicious meals! 

Coriander leaves, or "dhaniya," as they're fondly known in Hindi, are the rockstars of the Indian kitchen. These bright green beauties do way more than just sit pretty as a garnish. They can transform even the simplest dish into a culinary masterpiece with their unique flavour and aroma. For many, the smell of coriander is like a warm hug from a home-cooked meal. And guess what? They're not just tasty but also super healthy—great for your immunity, heart, and more! So, if you’ve got some leftover coriander leaves, don’t let them go to waste. Let's dive into some fun and tasty recipes that’ll make everyone at home, even the picky eaters, ask for seconds!

Spicy Tandoori Tofu and Coriander Salad 

If you’re looking to jazz up your salad game, try this Tandoori Tofu Coriander Salad! Imagine tender tofu marinated in a tangy and spicy tandoori paste and yoghurt mixture. This is mixed with roasted baby potatoes seasoned with curry powder for a hearty touch. Add a base of fresh mesclun lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, cucumber, and crisp green beans for that refreshing crunch. Roasted salted cashews come in with a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness. A simple yet tasty dressing made of yoghurt, water, sugar, and curry powder ties it all together. And of course, coriander leaves in the marinade and as a garnish give it that perfect aromatic finish. It's delicious, nutritious, and bound to make your taste buds dance!

Coriander Rice 

One of the easiest and most satisfying meals to whip up when you have leftover coriander leaves is a mixed veg pulao. Start by cooking up some rice with all your favourite seasonal veggies. Sauté with ginger, garlic, and chopped green chilies for a bit of heat. Then, add a touch of coriander chutney, made by blending coriander leaves with salt, sugar, and lemon juice. Top it off with fresh coriander leaves and a sprinkle of peanuts just before serving. The result is a vibrant, green, and incredibly tasty dish that’s also healthy. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover rice and veggies you have lying around!

Sweet Corn and Coriander Fritters 

Corn and coriander fritters are such a tasty way to use up leftover coriander leaves. They've got that sweet corn flavour mixed with the zing of coriander. The batter, made with plain and rice flour, gives them that perfect crunch on the outside while keeping the corn nice and soft inside. You can fry them up in a pan for that classic crispiness, or go for the air fryer to keep things a bit lighter. Serve them up as a snack or appetizer with some avocado salsa for dipping. Oh, and those roasted cherry tomatoes? They add a little pop of sweetness that just ties it all together.

Coriander and Paneer-Spiced Soup

Here's a comforting and healthy dish that makes great use of leftover coriander. This paneer and vegetable soup is packed with nutritious greens and infused with the vibrant flavours of coriander. The broth is prepared with coriander roots, garlic, ginger, leek, lemongrass, sesame oil, soy sauce, and hearty chunks of paneer, simmered until richly flavored. After cutting the paneer into bite-sized pieces, it's added back to the pot along with a mix of greens such as broccoli, baby spinach, and cavolo nero. Just before serving, a blend of chopped coriander leaves, additional garlic, lime juice, and green chilies is stirred in, adding a fresh and aromatic touch that enhances the overall taste. This soup offers a wholesome blend of textures and flavours, making it a satisfying meal option.

Green Coriander Flatbread    

Have you tried Dhaniya Paratha? This Indian flatbread blends whole wheat flour with fresh coriander leaves, cumin, chilli powder, and salt. Rolled thin, cooked on a tawa with oil or ghee until golden brown, these parathas are served with yoghurt, pickles, or curry. They're a flavorful way to enjoy the unique taste of coriander in every bite.

Leftover coriander leaves are your ticket to a world of culinary delights! Transform them into crispy fritters, refreshing salads, or comforting soups. Each dish bursts with the vibrant flavour and freshness of coriander, ensuring every meal is nutritious and utterly delicious. Don't let those greens go to waste—let them elevate your cooking to new heights!