Lighter Basil Pesto
Bright, flavorful, and guilt-free, this Lighter Basil Pesto is a fresh twist on the classic recipe, perfect for those seeking a healthier option without sacrificing taste. With a blend of aromatic basil and nutrient-packed baby spinach, this pesto packs a vibrant green punch while cutting back on heavy oils and cheese. Toasted pine nuts add depth and nuttiness, while fresh lemon juice brings a subtle zing to elevate your favorite dishes. Ready in just 10 minutes with a few simple ingredients, this silky, versatile pesto is ideal for tossing with pasta, drizzling over grilled vegetables, or spreading on sandwiches. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and can be stored for up to five days—perfect for meal prep or a quick flavor boost!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup Baby spinach leaves
- 1 large Garlic clove
- 2 tablespoons Grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons Extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Water
- 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice
- 0.25 teaspoons Salt
- 0.125 teaspoons Ground black pepper
Instructions
Wash and dry the basil and spinach leaves thoroughly.
Peel the garlic clove and set it aside.
In a dry skillet, lightly toast the pine nuts over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and aromatic. Remove from heat and let them cool.
In a food processor or high-powered blender, combine the basil, spinach, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts. Pulse a few times to coarsely chop the ingredients.
Add the olive oil, water, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the food processor. Blend the mixture until smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. If the pesto is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of water and blend again.
Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
Transfer the pesto to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator until ready to use. It can be kept for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
421 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 42.0 g | 54% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.6 g | 33% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 10 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 779 mg | 34% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 7.1 g | 3% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.1 g | ||
| Protein | 8.6 g | 17% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 196 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 3.0 mg | 17% | |
| Potassium | 380 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.
