Pesto Recipe with Walnuts: A Delicious Twist on a Classic
Are you ready to elevate your pesto game? This recipe uses walnuts instead of the traditional pine nuts, offering a unique, nutty flavor and a creamier texture. It's surprisingly easy to make and perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a vibrant topping for grilled vegetables. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields about 1 cup of pesto. Feel free to double or triple it depending on your needs!
- 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup walnuts, toasted
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
- 2 cloves garlic
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions for Making Walnut Pesto:
Toasting the Walnuts:
- Start by toasting the walnuts. This enhances their flavor significantly. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Watch them carefully to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Combining the Ingredients:
- Combine the basil leaves, toasted walnuts, Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor.
- Pulse until the mixture is coarsely chopped.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until a smooth paste forms. Don't over-process; you want some texture remaining.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Storing Your Homemade Pesto:
- Refrigerator: Store your pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. A layer of olive oil on top will help prevent browning.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze your pesto in ice cube trays or small containers. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Tips and Variations for Your Walnut Pesto:
- Basil Variations: Experiment with different types of basil, such as lemon basil or Thai basil, for a unique flavor profile.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
- Nut Substitutions: While walnuts are delicious, you can also use other nuts like pecans or almonds, although the flavor will be different.
- Add Some Greens: Incorporate a handful of spinach or arugula for added nutrients and a slightly different taste.
Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious Pesto:
- Pasta: Toss it with your favorite pasta.
- Sandwiches: Spread it on sandwiches or wraps.
- Pizza: Use it as a pizza sauce.
- Grilled Vegetables: Drizzle it over grilled vegetables.
- Chicken: Use it as a marinade or sauce for chicken.
This walnut pesto recipe is a fantastic way to add a unique and delicious twist to your favorite dishes. It's versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy! Remember to share your pesto creations with us – we'd love to see them! Happy cooking!
