Cashew Basil Pesto
Elevate your culinary creations with this vibrant and creamy Cashew Basil Pesto, a delightful twist on the classic recipe. Made with fresh basil leaves, toasted raw cashews, and nutty Parmesan cheese, this pesto is packed with robust flavor and a hint of brightness from fresh lemon juice. The velvety olive oil ties it all together, while garlic adds a savory punch. Ready in just 10 minutes, this no-cook recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant entertaining. Use it to coat your favorite pasta, slather it on sandwiches, or serve it as a dip for crusty bread or crisp veggies. With its rich texture and bold flavors, this pesto is a versatile and irresistible condiment you'll return to again and again.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 cups Raw cashews
- 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 pieces Garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 cups Olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper
Instructions
In a dry skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the cashews for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Remove from heat and allow them to cool for a minute.
In a food processor, combine the toasted cashews, fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, and lemon juice.
Pulse the mixture several times until it begins to break down into a coarse texture.
While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. Stop to scrape down the sides as needed.
Add salt and black pepper to taste, then pulse a few more times to fully incorporate the seasoning.
Taste and adjust seasoning or texture, adding an extra splash of olive oil if needed.
Transfer the pesto to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Serve with pasta, spread on sandwiches, or use as a dip for vegetables or bread.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
261 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 25.4 g | 33% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.8 g | 24% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 7 mg | 2% | |
| Sodium | 278 mg | 12% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 5.0 g | 2% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.8 g | ||
| Protein | 5.6 g | 11% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 107 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 1.5 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 155 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
