Lemon Pesto
Introduction
Lemon Pesto is a fresh and zesty twist on the traditional Italian pesto. This vibrant sauce is packed with flavor and is incredibly easy to make. It combines the freshness of basil with the bright taste of lemon, making it perfect for a variety of dishes!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Lemon Pesto is a great way to elevate your meals without too much effort. It uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Plus, it is versatile and can be used in pasta, on sandwiches, or as a dip. You’ll enjoy the burst of flavor it adds to your favorite recipes.
How to Make Lemon Pesto
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a food processor, combine the basil, garlic, and pine nuts.
- Pulse until finely chopped.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- While the food processor is running, gradually add the olive oil and blend until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve with your favorite pasta or as a spread.
How to Serve Lemon Pesto
Lemon Pesto is delicious served over pasta. You can also use it as a spread for sandwiches or a topping for grilled chicken or fish. It works well as a dip for fresh vegetables or crusty bread too.
How to Store Lemon Pesto
Store any leftover Lemon Pesto in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for about 5 days. To keep it fresh, drizzle a little olive oil on top before sealing the container. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for easy portions later.
Tips to Make Lemon Pesto
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor.
- Toast the pine nuts for a rich nutty taste.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste.
- Experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a unique flavor.
Variation
You can try adding different herbs, like parsley or cilantro, to mix things up. You can also substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pine nuts?
Yes, you can use walnuts, almonds, or even cashews.
Is Lemon Pesto vegan?
Traditional Lemon Pesto includes cheese. For a vegan version, omit the cheese or use nutritional yeast.
How long does Lemon Pesto last in the fridge?
Lemon Pesto can last for about 5 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.