This zesty Jalapeno Pesto Sauce transforms humble ingredients into a vibrant, spicy condiment that elevates any meal. By combining fresh basil leaves with roasted, skinned jalapenos, the heat is mellowed and smoky, creating a complex flavor profile. The addition of toasted pumpkin seeds adds a delightful crunch and earthy depth, while olive oil binds everything into a silky, emulsified sauce. A hint of lime juice brightens the richness, and roasted garlic provides a sweet, aromatic base. This versatile sauce is perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or using as a dip for crusty bread. It&# 226;ÂÂs a quick, plant-based option that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen with minimal effort.
Jalapeno Pesto Sauce
Description
This zesty Jalapeno Pesto Sauce transforms humble ingredients into a vibrant, spicy condiment that elevates any meal. By combining fresh basil leaves with roasted, skinned jalapenos, the heat is mellowed and smoky, creating a complex flavor profile. The addition of toasted pumpkin seeds adds a delightful crunch and earthy depth, while olive oil binds everything into a silky, emulsified sauce. A hint of lime juice brightens the richness, and roasted garlic provides a sweet, aromatic base. This versatile sauce is perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or using as a dip for crusty bread. It&# 226;ÂÂs a quick, plant-based option that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen with minimal effort.Ingredients
Directions
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Place the roasted and skinned jalapenos into the bowl of a food processor or blender.
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Add the fresh basil leaves, roasted garlic clove, pumpkin seeds, and parmesan cheese to the processor.
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Pour in the juice of one lime.
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With the machine running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is emulsified and smooth.
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Pulse the mixture a few more times until the desired consistency is reached, scraping down the sides as needed.
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Transfer the pesto to a serving bowl or jar and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 823.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 90.6g140%
- Saturated Fat 12.7g64%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 3.9mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 4.6g2%
- Dietary Fiber 2.0g8%
- Sugars 2.5g
- Protein 2.4g5%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For a fully vegan version, substitute the parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan parmesan alternative.
To store, place the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation and keep it fresh for up to 1 week.
You can freeze this pesto for up to 3 months. Leave some headspace in the container for expansion.
If the jalapenos are too spicy for your taste, remove the seeds and membranes before roasting them.
Toasting the pumpkin seeds in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes before blending will enhance their nutty flavor.
