A garden pesto with bright, lemony flavor.
This lemon pesto includes the zest and juice of fresh lemon, for a pleasant citrusy tang. It can be made with whatever leafy herbs you like (or whatever you happen to have in the fridge). And there is no need to worry about having pine nuts in stock. It blends in a food processor for quick and easy preparation. Just mix in some Parmesan cheese after blending and it is ready to go.
Lemon & Herb Pesto
For this non-traditional pesto, any leafy green herbs can be used, not just basil. Mint, tarragon, cilantro, parsley, dill, and even arugula are great choices, but a mix is even better. There are also no pesky pine nuts to worry about, and fresh lemon is included for extra brightness. While you could make it the old-fashioned way with a mortal and pestle, it comes together with ease using a food processor. And although it may not be traditional, it is just as delicious and can be used anywhere you would normally find pesto: on pasta, meats, vegetables, eggs, or simply spread onto toast.
Ingredients
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil plus more as needed
- 1 small lemon
- 4 cups fresh leafy herbs lightly packed
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a spouted bowl or measuring cup combine olive oil with zest and juice from lemon. Whisk together and set aside.
- Place herbs and garlic in a food processor. Pulse until well chopped and evenly combined.
- Gradually pour in oil and lemon mixture while the food processor is running. Blend until smooth. Pour in additional oil if needed until the mixture is loose and saucy.
- Transfer to a bowl and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add more olive oil if needed to keep pesto loose.
Notes
This keeps well refrigerated in a sealed container for several weeks. If it solidifies simply leave it out for a few minutes and it will return to normal. It can also be frozen in ice cube trays and then stored in a sealed container. Thaw cubes at room temperature or in the fridge.
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