Elevate your culinary repertoire with this vibrant Pacific Rim Pesto, a fusion of bold, Asian-inspired flavors and classic pesto charm. Fresh cilantro and basil create a fragrant herbaceous base, while toasted sesame seeds and cashews add nutty depth. The recipe sings with the zesty brightness of lime juice, the umami punch of soy sauce, and the subtle heat of optional red pepper flakes. Finished with a blend of toasted sesame oil and olive oil, this no-cook pesto comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick entertaining. Toss it with noodles, use it as a marinade, or spread it on your favorite crusty bread for a tantalizing twist on tradition.
Gather all your ingredients and prepare them. Toast the sesame seeds and cashews if they are not already toasted.
In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh cilantro leaves, basil leaves, toasted sesame seeds, and toasted cashews.
Add the grated ginger, minced garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil to the mixture in the food processor.
Pulse the food processor several times to begin breaking down the ingredients. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed.
With the food processor running on low, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth but still slightly textured.
Taste the pesto and season with salt and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired.
Transfer the Pacific Rim Pesto to an airtight container. It can be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Calories |
1940 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 186.5 g | 239% | |
| Saturated Fat | 29.1 g | 146% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 10.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1581 mg | 69% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 55.4 g | 20% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.7 g | 45% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.3 g | ||
| Protein | 31.4 g | 63% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 441 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 17.3 mg | 96% | |
| Potassium | 2143 mg | 46% | |
*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.