Sauce
Sunflower Seed And Basil Pesto
On December 24, 2023 by userSunflower seed and basil pesto is a delightful alternative to traditional pesto made with pine nuts. It’s nutty, flavorful, and versatile. Here’s a simple recipe for Sunflower Seed and Basil Pesto:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup roasted sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions:
- Toast Sunflower Seeds:
- If your sunflower seeds are not already roasted, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until they become golden and fragrant. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning. Let them cool.
- Prepare Basil:
- Wash the basil leaves and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, roasted sunflower seeds, grated Parmesan cheese, and peeled garlic cloves.
- Pulse:
- Pulse the ingredients a few times to start breaking them down.
- Stream in Olive Oil:
- With the food processor running, slowly stream in the extra-virgin olive oil through the feed tube. Continue blending until the mixture reaches your desired consistency.
- Season:
- Season the pesto with salt and black pepper to taste. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness if desired.
- Adjust Consistency:
- If the pesto is too thick, you can add more olive oil until it reaches the desired consistency. Pulse to combine.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
- Store or Use Immediately:
- Transfer the sunflower seed and basil pesto to a jar or airtight container. If you’re not using it immediately, cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation.
- Enjoy:
- Use the sunflower seed and basil pesto as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, a topping for grilled vegetables, or a flavorful addition to salads. The possibilities are endless!
This pesto variation is nut-free, making it a great option for those with nut allergies. The sunflower seeds add a delicious nutty flavor, and the pesto can be a wonderful addition to various dishes.