Walnut Pesto
Elevate your pesto game with this rich and nutty Walnut Pesto recipe, a delightful twist on the classic basil sauce. Made with toasted walnuts, fresh basil leaves, and a hint of zesty lemon juice, this versatile spread offers a creamy texture and bold flavor profile that’s perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or drizzling over roasted vegetables. The addition of Parmesan cheese and extra-virgin olive oil lends a smooth, velvety consistency, while freshly ground black pepper and garlic provide a subtle kick. Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required, this easy-to-make walnut pesto is a must-have for quick meals and elegant dinners alike. Whether you’re meal-prepping or creating a last-minute masterpiece, this recipe guarantees maximum flavor with minimal effort.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Walnuts
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 2 large Garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 0.5 cup Extra-virgin olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 tablespoons Water (optional, for consistency)
Instructions
Start by toasting the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
In a food processor, combine the toasted walnuts, fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves.
Pulse the mixture until coarsely chopped, scraping down the sides of the processor as needed.
Add the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Turn the processor on and slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending. Blend until the pesto is smooth but still has a bit of texture.
If the pesto is too thick for your liking, add water one tablespoon at a time until your desired consistency is reached.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
Transfer the walnut pesto to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week or frozen for longer storage.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2345 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 225.9 g | 290% | |
| Saturated Fat | 44.9 g | 224% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 71 mg | 24% | |
| Sodium | 2792 mg | 121% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 30.1 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.1 g | 43% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.6 g | ||
| Protein | 67.3 g | 135% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 1603 mg | 123% | |
| Iron | 8.3 mg | 46% | |
| Potassium | 1051 mg | 22% | |
*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.
