Garlic Pesto Spread
Elevate your appetizer game with this vibrant and flavorful Garlic Pesto Spread—a quick-to-make, no-cook dip that’s bursting with fresh basil, zesty garlic, and nutty Parmesan. Perfectly balanced with toasted pine nuts, a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and the richness of extra virgin olive oil, this velvety spread is ready in just 10 minutes. Whether slathered over crusty bread, tossed with roasted veggies, or used as a dip for crisp crudités, this pesto spread is the ultimate versatile condiment. Easy to make and refrigerator-friendly, it’s an irresistible addition to any gathering or weeknight dinner. Try this savory, herbaceous spread today and turn simple dishes into gourmet delights!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 3 pieces Garlic cloves
- 0.25 cup Pine nuts
- 0.33 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.25 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice, freshly squeezed
Instructions
Rinse and pat dry the fresh basil leaves to remove any dirt or debris.
Peel the garlic cloves and set them aside.
In a dry skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the pine nuts for 2-3 minutes until golden, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and let them cool.
In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic cloves, toasted pine nuts, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Pulse the mixture a few times until it forms a coarse texture.
With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Add salt, freshly ground black pepper, and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the food processor. Pulse to incorporate.
Taste the spread and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
Transfer the garlic pesto spread to a jar or bowl and store in the refrigerator until ready to use. For best flavor, serve at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
844 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 87.3 g | 112% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.9 g | 74% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 11.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 26 mg | 9% | |
| Sodium | 1631 mg | 71% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 10.1 g | 4% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.0 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.6 g | ||
| Protein | 17.2 g | 34% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 366 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 3.4 mg | 19% | |
| Potassium | 388 mg | 8% | |
*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.
