Vibrant Spinach
&
Walnut Pesto
Bright, fresh, and flavorful- Pesto is one of my all time favorite sauces. When I don't have fresh basil and pine nuts to create the traditional pesto alla Genovese, I like to get creative with other leafy greens and nuts. My recipe includes common grocery staples like walnuts and spinach to create a creamy and vibrant pesto sauce that comes in handy for several dishes. Both delicious and nutritious, this pesto sauce is definitely one that I make sure to keep in stock for the busy week ahead!
A few ways I love to use my Spinach-Walnut Pesto sauce are:
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On my breakfast toast
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As a spread for sandwiches or wraps
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Dallop onto soups
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Toss into pasta or even veggie noodles like zoodles
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Spread some onto baked chicken, salmon, or tofu for a quick dinner
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As a sauce base for homemade pizza
Vibrant Spinach-Walnut Pesto Recipe
Servings: About 8 (1 serving is 2 tbsp.)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 5 minutes
Author: Huma Naz
Ingredients:
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4 cups of fresh spinach
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1/4 cup of walnut halves
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1-2 small garlic cloves
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2 tbsp. lemon juice
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1 oz. parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast
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3-4 tbsp. olive oil
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1-2 tbsp. warm water
(Adjust spices per taste preference)
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1/4 tsp. chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes
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1/4 tsp. cumin
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1/2 tsp. black pepper
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Pinch of Himalayan salt
Directions:
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Toss all ingredients in a food processor and a small bit of the olive oil.
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Process until the mix is smooth. You may need to stop the processor to scrape the sides.
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Gradually add the rest of the olive oil and process until everything is blended well. You can add a bit more olive oil or warm water for a more creamy consistency.
Recipe Notes:
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You can store the pesto sauce in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to a week.
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For best results, use a food processor rather than a blender.