Teresa's Recipes
Lemon Pesto with a Zesty Twist
Experience a tantalizing burst of citrus with our Lemon Pesto. This distinct recipe, originally from the vibrant coasts of Liguria in Italy, combines the classic elements of pesto with a refreshing lemony flair. The rich and nutty pine nuts, aromatic basil, and sharp Parmesan cheese are perfectly balanced with the vivacity of lemons. It's a refreshing twist on the traditional pesto, perfect for adding a zing to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon or to taste Black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon or to taste Salt
- 1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed Lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Lemon zest
- 2 cloves, peeled Garlic
- 1/2 cup, freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup, toasted Pine nuts
- 2 cups, firmly packed Fresh basil leaves
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Sugar: 1g
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, peeled garlic cloves, finely grated lemon zest, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Pulse the ingredients until they are well combined and finely chopped. This should create a thick, textured paste.
- With the food processor running on low, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Continue to process until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. It should be smooth, but with some texture.
- Season your lemon pesto with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Transfer the lemon pesto to a jar or an airtight container. This will ensure freshness when stored.
- Store your lemon pesto in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a week.
- Use this zesty lemon pesto as a vibrant sauce over pasta, a tangy spread for sandwiches, or a flavorful topping for grilled meats and vegetables.
Tips
- For an added gourmet touch, try swapping the pine nuts for toasted walnuts or almonds.
- If you prefer a vegan version, substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.