Elevate your appetizer game with this irresistible Mozzarella Pesto Spread—a vibrant blend of creamy fresh mozzarella and fragrant homemade basil pesto. In just 15 minutes, you'll create a gourmet spread that's bursting with flavor, thanks to fresh basil leaves, nutty Parmesan, golden pine nuts, and a hint of garlic, all bound together with rich extra virgin olive oil. Perfectly seasoned and paired with crusty baguette slices or crispy crackers, this spread is a show-stopping addition to any gathering. Whether served as a dip, topping for crostini, or even a luxurious snack, this recipe seamlessly combines a touch of elegance with effortless preparation. Make your next appetizer table unforgettable with this easy yet refined dish!
1. Prepare the basil pesto: In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and the garlic clove. Pulse a few times until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
2. Slowly add the olive oil: While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Continue blending until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
3. Season the pesto: Add the salt and ground black pepper to the pesto mixture and pulse a few more times to incorporate the seasoning. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Prepare the mozzarella: Tear the fresh mozzarella into small, bite-sized pieces or dice it into small cubes depending on your preference.
5. Combine the mozzarella with the pesto: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, gently fold the prepared pesto into the mozzarella pieces until they are evenly coated.
6. Serve: Transfer the Mozzarella Pesto Spread to a serving dish and garnish with a few whole basil leaves or a sprinkle of pine nuts, if desired. Serve with sliced baguette, crackers, or as a topping for crostini.
Calories |
2933 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 223.6 g | 287% | |
| Saturated Fat | 68.2 g | 341% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 15.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 258 mg | 86% | |
| Sodium | 5168 mg | 225% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 137.3 g | 50% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.3 g | 40% | |
| Total Sugars | 17.7 g | ||
| Protein | 112.4 g | 225% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 2188 mg | 168% | |
| Iron | 9.7 mg | 54% | |
| Potassium | 826 mg | 18% | |
*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.