How to Make Spinach Pesto
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A Fresh and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Sauce
If you’re looking to add a burst of flavor and nutrition to your meals, Spinach Pesto is the perfect solution.
This vibrant, green sauce is a twist on the traditional basil pesto, offering a milder taste and a boost of vitamins and minerals.
Made with fresh spinach, garlic, nuts, and Parmesan cheese, this pesto is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta and sandwiches to dips and spreads.
In this post, we'll guide you through the steps to make your own spinach pesto at home.
Why Spinach Pesto?
Spinach pesto is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional basil pesto. Spinach is packed with nutrients like iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K, making this pesto not only tasty but also good for you.
The mild flavor of spinach pairs well with a variety of dishes, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of leafy greens in a flavorful and easy-to-use sauce.
Plus, it’s a great way to use up extra spinach you might have in the fridge!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Spinach Pesto, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Fresh spinach: Baby spinach works best for its tender leaves and mild flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor to the pesto.
- Nuts: Pine nuts are traditional, but walnuts or almonds also work well.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, salty flavor to the pesto.
- Olive oil: Helps to create a smooth and creamy texture.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the flavor and helps preserve the green color of the spinach.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
How to Make Spinach Pesto
Making Spinach Pesto is simple and quick, taking just a few minutes from start to finish:
- Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing and drying the spinach leaves. Peel the garlic cloves and grate the Parmesan cheese if not pre-grated.
- Toast the nuts (optional): For added depth of flavor, lightly toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, until they’re golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as this can make the pesto taste bitter.
- Blend the ingredients: In a food processor, combine the spinach, garlic, nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped and well combined.
- Add the olive oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. This helps to emulsify the pesto and gives it a smooth, creamy consistency. Blend until the pesto reaches your desired texture—some prefer it chunkier, while others like it smoother.
- Season to taste: Add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then blend again to incorporate. Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more lemon juice for brightness, more Parmesan for richness, or a bit more garlic for a stronger flavor.
- Store the pesto: Transfer the pesto to a jar or airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it in small portions—ice cube trays work great for this.
Ways to Use Spinach Pesto
Spinach Pesto is incredibly versatile and can be used in countless ways. Here are some ideas:
- Pasta: Toss the pesto with your favorite pasta for a quick and delicious meal. Add a splash of pasta water to thin the pesto and help it coat the noodles evenly.
- Sandwiches and wraps: Spread the pesto on sandwiches or wraps for a burst of flavor.
- Pizza: Use spinach pesto as a pizza sauce, topping it with mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Dips: Serve the pesto as a dip for fresh vegetables, crackers, or bread.
- Protein topping: Spoon the pesto over grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a flavorful finish.
Health Benefits of Spinach Pesto
This Spinach Pesto is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- High in vitamins and minerals: Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K, which are essential for overall health.
- Good source of antioxidants: The ingredients in pesto, including spinach, garlic, and nuts, are high in antioxidants, which help protect your body from free radicals.
- Healthy fats: Olive oil and nuts provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Tips for the Best Spinach Pesto
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and garlic will give you the best flavor. Avoid using spinach that’s wilted or garlic that’s sprouted.
- Balance the flavors: If the pesto tastes too bitter, add a bit more Parmesan or a pinch of sugar. If it’s too thick, thin it out with more olive oil or a bit of water.
- Prevent browning: To keep the pesto bright green, add a little extra lemon juice or blanch the spinach briefly before blending.
Storing and Freezing Spinach Pesto
Spinach Pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To prevent browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pesto before sealing the container.
For longer storage, freeze the pesto in ice cube trays, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag. Frozen pesto can last for several months, and you can thaw just the amount you need.
This Spinach Pesto is a fresh and flavorful addition to any meal, and once you’ve tried it, you’ll want to keep a jar in your fridge at all times.
It’s a simple, healthy way to elevate your dishes and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade pesto.
Enjoy this Easy video tutorial about Pesto
Source: Cara Di Falco
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