Cilantro, also known as coriander leaves, is an herb that is commonly used in a variety of cuisines around the world. The plant is native to the Mediterranean and West Asia and has a long history of use in traditional medicine and cooking.

The history of cilantro can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where it was used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all used cilantro for its medicinal properties, and it was also used as a symbol of wealth and prosperity. In ancient Chinese medicine, cilantro was used to treat a variety of ailments such as indigestion and respiratory problems.

Cilantro was brought to the Americas by European settlers, and it quickly became a popular herb in American cuisine. Today, cilantro is used in many different cuisines, including Mexican, Indian, and Thai. It's a key ingredient in many traditional dishes such as salsa, guacamole, and curries.

Cilantro has a unique, fresh and citrusy flavor, and it is often used as a garnish or added to dishes at the end of cooking to preserve its flavor. It's commonly used in salsas, guacamoles, and marinades and is also used in soups, stews, and curries. It pairs well with spicy food and it's a common ingredient in Asian and Latin American cuisine.

In addition to its culinary uses, cilantro has a long history of use in traditional medicine. It's believed to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Cilantro is high in Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C, as well as minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium.

Cilantro is easy to grow, and it is often used in gardens as an attractive ornamental plant. It can be grown in a variety of soils and climates, and it is a popular herb for container gardens. It's also a common ingredient in many herb gardens.

Here are a few dishes that go well with cilantro:

1. Salsas, guacamoles, and dips: Cilantro is a key ingredient in many traditional Mexican dishes such as salsa, guacamole, and dips, it adds a refreshing and bright flavor to these dishes.

2. Curries and stews: Cilantro is commonly used in Indian, Thai and other Southeast Asian curries and stews, it adds a fresh and citrusy flavor that pairs well with the spices used in these dishes.

3. Mexican and Latin American cuisine: Cilantro is a staple in Mexican and Latin American cuisine, it's often used to add a refreshing and bright flavor to dishes such as tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.

4. Seafood dishes: Cilantro can be used to add a fresh and citrusy flavor to seafood dishes such as fish tacos, ceviche, and shrimp scampi.

5. Salad: Cilantro can be used to add a fresh and citrusy flavor to salads, particularly in combination with lime juice and other herbs.

6. Soups and stews: Cilantro can be used to add a fresh and citrusy flavor to soups and stews.

7. Meat dishes: Cilantro can be used to add a fresh and citrusy flavor to meat dishes such as chicken, pork, and beef.

8. Spiced drinks: Cilantro can be used to add a fresh flavor.