Olive Pesto

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Olive Pesto

Dive into the rich, savory goodness of this Olive Pesto, a Mediterranean delight bursting with flavor. Made from luscious black olives, aromatic garlic, and fragrant fresh basil, this pesto is a perfect accompaniment for pasta, a delicious spread on crusty bread, or a zesty topping for grilled vegetables. Olive pesto is not only versatile but also a celebration of the timeless ingredients of Italian cuisine, often found in rustic kitchens throughout the Mediterranean. This unique twist on traditional pesto showcases the deep, briny notes of olives, making it an unforgettable addition to your culinary repertoire.

Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • Black olives (1 cup, pitted and drained)
  • Fresh basil leaves (1/2 cup, packed)
  • Garlic (2 cloves, peeled)
  • Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated)
  • Olive oil (1/3 cup)
  • Salt (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste)
  • Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon, or to taste)
  • Lemon juice (1 tablespoon (optional for brightness))

Instructions

  1. In a food processor, combine the black olives, garlic, fresh basil leaves, and Parmesan cheese.
  2. Pulse the mixture until it is finely chopped.
  3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  4. Add salt and black pepper to taste, and if desired, include lemon juice for a bright finish. Pulse again to combine.
  5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your palate.
  6. Transfer the olive pesto to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. It can be stored in the fridge for up to one week.

Dietary Information

Servings: 8 • Dish Type: Condiment • Prep Time: 10 minutes • Calories: 130 • Fat: 12g • Carbs: 3g • Protein: 3g • Sodium: 250mg • Sugar: 0g