Walnut Pesto
The moment I discovered Walnut Pesto, it was as if a hidden culinary gem had been unveiled right in my kitchen. I remember the first time I was introduced to it at a quaint Italian café, where the aroma of fresh herbs and the rich nuttiness of walnuts danced in the air. I was captivated. The vibrant green hue of basil leaves and the simple yet powerful flavors combined to create something extraordinary. I rushed home, eager to replicate that experience and, believe me, it was easier than I ever imagined. It quickly became a staple in my household, whether tossed with pasta, swirled into soups, or spread on toast. Every time I make Walnut Pesto, it brings a smile to my face and warmth to my heart, reminding me of those delightful moments.
Recipe Snapshot
10 mins
10 mins
0 mins
Easy
250 kcal
5 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
24 g
Grater, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Food Processor
Why This Walnut Pesto Hits Different
What makes this Walnut Pesto so beloved? Let me share a few reasons why I can’t get enough of it.
Rich, Earthy Flavor
The combination of fresh basil and crunchy walnuts creates a depth of flavor that’s simply unmatched. The earthiness of the walnuts complements the aromatic basil, making each bite a burst of deliciousness.
Versatility at Its Best
This Walnut Pesto can be used in countless ways. Whether you’re spreading it on a warm piece of bread, mixing it with pasta, or even drizzling it over grilled vegetables, it elevates any dish to a new level.
Quick and Easy to Prepare
One of the best parts about this recipe is how quick it is to whip up! With just a few ingredients and a food processor, you can have a gourmet sauce ready in a matter of minutes. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without a lot of fuss.
Healthy Ingredients
Each ingredient in this Walnut Pesto is packed with nutrients. From the fresh basil to the healthy fats in walnuts, you can feel good about adding this sauce to your meals. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that not only tastes great but also nourishes your body.
Meal Prep Friendly
This Walnut Pesto is perfect for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge and can even be frozen for later use. Just a spoonful can transform a simple dish into something amazing, making it a must-have in your culinary arsenal.
What Goes Into Walnut Pesto
Creating a great Walnut Pesto relies on a handful of high-quality ingredients that come together beautifully. Freshness is key here, as the vibrant flavors of each component shine through. Let’s dive into the essential players that make this sauce a standout.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: 3 cups of fresh basil leaves, packed. They’re the star of the show, providing a fragrant and aromatic base.
- Walnuts: 1/3 cup of walnuts adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Garlic Cloves: 2 whole garlic cloves bring depth and a hint of spice, balancing the flavors perfectly.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese introduces a savory richness that rounds out the pesto beautifully.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon of lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, making the flavors pop.
- Olive Oil: 1/3 cup of olive oil, plus more if needed, helps to blend everything together and adds a silky texture.
- Kosher Salt: 1/2 teaspoon of Kosher salt to taste, essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
Walnut Pesto Instructions
Making Walnut Pesto is as easy as 1-2-3! I love how simple this process is, allowing me to enjoy a gourmet sauce in no time. Here’s how to do it:
- Add the basil leaves into a food processor along with the walnuts, parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and salt. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped but not quite a paste. You should see a beautiful green mixture form, full of texture.
- Remove the lid and slowly pour in half of the olive oil, pulsing the ingredients together until they’re mixed well. This step is crucial for achieving that smooth consistency; you want it to be creamy but still have some bits for texture.
- For a more liquid-style pesto, add the remaining olive oil and pulse again to mix thoroughly. Watch as the vibrant green color deepens and the texture becomes silkier. This is where you can decide how thick or thin you want it to be.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as desired. This is your moment to make it perfect; whether you need more salt or an extra squeeze of lemon juice, trust your palate!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh basil and walnuts to ensure the best flavor.
- Texture Matters: If you prefer a chunkier pesto, pulse the ingredients less to retain some texture.
- Storing: Store your pesto in an airtight container, pressing plastic wrap against the surface to prevent browning.
- Serving Suggestions: Try using Walnut Pesto as a dip for fresh veggies or a topping for grilled fish.
Helpful Notes about Walnut Pesto
Here are some handy tips to keep in mind while making and enjoying your Walnut Pesto:
- Storage: Store leftover Walnut Pesto in a glass container in the fridge for up to one week. Make sure to cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to help preserve its vibrant color.
- Freezing: You can freeze pesto for up to three months. Use ice cube trays to freeze them in portions, then transfer to a freezer bag for easy use.
- Pairing: This Walnut Pesto pairs wonderfully with pasta, grilled chicken, or as a spread on sandwiches.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding other nuts or herbs to change up the flavor profile.
- Make It Vegan: Omit the parmesan cheese and replace it with nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
Serving This Walnut Pesto
When it comes to serving Walnut Pesto, the possibilities are endless. Here are some creative ideas:
- Pasta Dish: Toss your favorite pasta with Walnut Pesto for an easy weeknight dinner. Pair it with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Spread: Use Walnut Pesto as a spread on sandwiches or wraps, adding a burst of flavor to your lunch.
- Drizzle: Drizzle it over grilled meats or vegetables for an elegant touch at your dinner table.
- Brunch Option: Serve it on avocado toast for a delicious brunch idea that’s sure to impress.
- Party Dip: Combine it with cream cheese for a crowd-pleasing dip served with crackers or fresh veggies.
- Storage Tips: Any leftovers should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. Use within a week or freeze for longer storage.
FAQ
Conclusion
Walnut Pesto stands out as a flavorful and versatile sauce that can elevate any meal with its rich taste and creamy texture. It’s incredibly easy to make and can be used in countless dishes, making it a must-try for anyone who loves good food. So, gather your ingredients and make this delightful sauce tonight—your taste buds will thank you!
Walnut Pesto
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add the basil leaves into a food processor along with the walnuts, parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and salt. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped but not quite a paste.
- Remove the lid and slowly pour in half of the olive oil, pulsing the ingredients together until they’re mixed well. This step is crucial for achieving that smooth consistency; you want it to be creamy but still have some bits for texture.
- For a more liquid-style pesto, add the remaining olive oil and pulse again to mix thoroughly. Watch as the vibrant green color deepens and the texture becomes silkier.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as desired. This is your moment to make it perfect; whether you need more salt or an extra squeeze of lemon juice, trust your palate!
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover Walnut Pesto in a glass container in the fridge for up to one week.
- Freezing: You can freeze pesto for up to three months. Use ice cube trays to freeze them in portions.
- Pairing: This Walnut Pesto pairs wonderfully with pasta, grilled chicken, or as a spread on sandwiches.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding other nuts or herbs.
- Make It Vegan: Omit the parmesan cheese and replace it with nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
