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Vibrant Spinach Pesto
This vibrant and flavorful spinach pesto is a delightful twist on traditional basil pesto, packed with nutrients and a burst of fresh flavor. Perfect as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for fresh veggies, this versatile pesto is sure to elevate any dish. The fusion of spinach and basil creates a unique taste that is both refreshing and robust, making it a favorite for health-conscious food lovers. As a bonus, this recipe honors the rich history of pesto, which dates back to the 16th century in Genoa, Italy, where it was originally made with basil, garlic, and cheese.
Ingredients
- Fresh spinach leaves
- 2 cups, packed
- Fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup, packed
- Garlic cloves
- 2, peeled
- Pine nuts
- 1/4 cup, lightly toasted
- Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup, grated
- Lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
- Olive oil
- 1/2 cup, extra virgin
- Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the packed spinach leaves, basil leaves, garlic cloves, grated Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Pulse the mixture until the ingredients are well combined and a smooth consistency is formed.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the pesto is fully blended and creamy.
- Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if desired.
- Transfer the spinach pesto to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use; it can be stored for up to a week.
- Serve the vibrant spinach pesto as a gourmet spread on crusty bread, toss it with your favorite pasta, or use it as a zesty sauce for grilled vegetables, fish, or chicken.
Tips
- For a nut-free version, you can substitute the pine nuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.
- Feel free to experiment with other greens, such as kale or arugula, for a different flavor profile.
- To enhance the flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Dietary Information
Servings: 4 Dish Type: Sauce/Dip Prep Time: 10 minutes Calories: 180 Fat: 16g Carbs: 4g Protein: 6g Sodium: 250mg Sugar: 1g
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