Imagine a vibrant, nutty pesto that's not just another boring sauce, but a culinary game-changer that will elevate every dish it touches! Our Spinach and Pecan Pesto is a revolutionary twist on the classic Italian favorite, blending the earthy richness of toasted pecans with the fresh, green goodness of spinach. This isn't just a recipe - it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen, promising to turn even the most mundane meal into a restaurant-worthy experience.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups of fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup of pecans
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Wash the fresh spinach leaves thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat dry with paper towels or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will enhance their nutty flavor and release their natural oils. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Peel and roughly chop the garlic cloves to prepare them for blending.
- In a food processor, combine the fresh spinach leaves, toasted pecans, peeled garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Pulse the ingredients a few times to break them down into smaller pieces.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil in a steady stream. This will help emulsify the pesto and create a smooth, consistent texture.
- Stop and scrape down the sides of the food processor with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Continue processing until the pesto reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Taste the pesto and add salt as needed, pulsing briefly to incorporate.
- Transfer the pesto to a clean storage container. If not using immediately, cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning and store in the refrigerator.
Tips
- Freshness is Key: Always use the freshest spinach leaves possible for the most vibrant color and flavor.
- Toasting Technique: Take your time when toasting pecans - watch them carefully and stir constantly to prevent burning. The goal is a golden, fragrant nut that enhances the pesto's depth.
- Consistency Matters: If your pesto is too thick, add a little more olive oil. If it's too thin, add more nuts or cheese to achieve the perfect spreadable texture.
- Storage Hack: The thin layer of olive oil on top prevents oxidation and keeps your pesto looking and tasting fresh for days.
- Versatility Tip: This pesto isn't just for pasta - try it as a spread on sandwiches, a dip for vegetables, or a topping for grilled meats and fish.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This pesto can be prepared up to 5 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 277kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
