Fresh Basil Spinach Pesto
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Fresh Basil Spinach Pesto is a lively, vibrant sauce that’s ready to go in minutes. With a handful of simple ingredients, like fragrant basil, tender baby spinach, and a touch of lemon, it offers a bold, sunny brightness that brings a little extra something to pasta, sandwiches, or roasted vegetables. Pine nuts lend it a hint of buttery richness, while good olive oil ties it all together. It’s one of those recipes that comes together quickly but tastes like a treat. A jar in the fridge means you’ll never be without a boost of fresh, aromatic flavor, ready to enliven any dish.
Why You’ll Love Fresh Basil Spinach Pesto
- Fresh Flavor: The blend of basil, spinach, and lemon creates a vibrant, garden-fresh taste in every bite.
- Quick & Easy: It comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Versatile: This spinach basil pesto works equally well on pasta, sandwiches, pizza, or as a dip for veggies.
- Nutty Richness: The pine nuts add a subtle buttery texture that elevates the whole sauce.
- Bright & Zesty: A hint of lemon juice gives it that perfect tangy finish.
Ingredients Needed To Make Fresh Basil Spinach Pesto
Make sure you scroll down to the recipe card to see the full list of ingredients needed for this recipe.
- Fresh basil leaves
- Fresh spinach
- Olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Lemon juice
- Black pepper
- Pine nuts
How To Make Fresh Basil Spinach Pesto
- Add all ingredients to a food processor.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Adjust the taste as needed and serve.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut instead of pine nuts?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts, almonds, or cashews for the pine nuts. Each option will slightly alter the flavor, but they all work well in pesto.
How should I store leftover pesto?
You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain its vibrant color, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing.
Can I freeze this pesto?
Absolutely! Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space at the top, and freeze for up to three months. For easy portioning, try freezing it in an ice cube tray, then transferring the cubes to a bag once solid.
What’s the best way to thin out the pesto if it’s too thick?
If the pesto is too thick, add a bit of extra olive oil, water, or even lemon juice. Start with small amounts and blend until you get your desired consistency.
How do I keep the pesto from turning brown?
To help prevent browning, store the pesto in a container with as little air as possible and press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface. A light drizzle of olive oil on top before sealing the container can also help preserve its color.
How do I use fresh basil spinach pesto?
This Fresh Basil Spinach Pesto is incredibly versatile and can be used to enhance a variety of dishes. Toss it with cooked pasta or zucchini noodles to make pesto pasta for an easy weeknight dinner. You can also spread it on homemade pizza dough or premade pizza dough before baking for an herby twist. You can also spread it on a Caprese sandwich or Easy Focaccia Pizza for a depth of flavor. Drizzle it over grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes for an extra pop of flavor, or mix it into a simple salad dressing.
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Fresh Basil Spinach Pesto
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh basil
- 1 ½ cups fresh baby spinach
- ½ cup olive oil
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- Juice of 1 lemon yuzu for an extra kick
- Pinch of pepper
- ½ cup pine nuts
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a food processor and blend until a smooth pesto is achieved.
Nutrition
Now that you’ve got this fresh basil spinach pesto recipe ready to go, the possibilities are endless. I love keeping a jar in the fridge for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or even drizzling over roasted veggies. It’s such a versatile sauce that it quickly became a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it does in yours too.