Low Sodium Classic Pesto Dressing
Elevate your meals with this vibrant and healthy Low Sodium Classic Pesto Dressing, a fresh twist on the beloved Italian favorite. Made with aromatic basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, zesty lemon juice, and a touch of Parmesan, this recipe skips the salt without compromising on flavor. The creamy emulsion of extra virgin olive oil creates a rich, smooth texture, while freshly ground black pepper adds the perfect kick. Ready in just 10 minutes, this versatile dressing is ideal for drizzling over salads, tossing with pasta, or spreading on sandwiches, and can be customized to your preferred consistency with a splash of water. Perfect for those watching their sodium intake, this pesto dressing proves that bold, herbaceous flavor can be achieved guilt-free!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 0.25 cup pine nuts
- 2 large garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.5 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
Begin by toasting the pine nuts. In a small skillet over medium heat, add the pine nuts and stir frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and let them cool.
In a food processor, add the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese.
Pulse the mixture several times until everything is finely chopped and well combined.
With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. This will help emulsify the ingredients and create a smooth texture.
Add the black pepper and, if needed, the water to thin the dressing to your desired consistency. Pulse a few more times to incorporate.
Taste the pesto dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remember, this is a low sodium recipe, so no additional salt is included. You may add more lemon juice if you desire a brighter flavor.
Transfer the pesto dressing to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Enjoy your low sodium classic pesto dressing on salads, as a pasta accompaniment, or as a flavorful sandwich spread.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1306 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 141.4 g | 181% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.7 g | 108% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 11.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 20 mg | 7% | |
| Sodium | 344 mg | 15% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 12.1 g | 4% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.2 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.0 g | ||
| Protein | 14.9 g | 30% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 303 mg | 23% | |
| Iron | 3.5 mg | 19% | |
| Potassium | 415 mg | 9% | |
*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.
