Include in Print View:

Lean Pesto

Lean Pesto recipe image
This lean pesto offers a brilliant alternative to traditional oil-heavy versions, perfect for those watching their fat intake without sacrificing flavor. By substituting chicken stock for olive oil, you get a bright, herbaceous sauce that is incredibly aromatic and fresh. The combination of packed basil leaves, sharp Parmesan cheese, and pungent garlic creates a robust flavor profile that stands up beautifully to pasta. It is versatile enough to toss with hot noodles, stir into soups, or use as a vibrant topping for vegetables. Quick to blend and easy to store, this sauce brings the taste of Italy to your table with a healthy twist.
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 6
Calories: 113.8
Dietary: Gluten-free, Low-fat
Description
This lean pesto offers a brilliant alternative to traditional oil-heavy versions, perfect for those watching their fat intake without sacrificing flavor. By substituting chicken stock for olive oil, you get a bright, herbaceous sauce that is incredibly aromatic and fresh. The combination of packed basil leaves, sharp Parmesan cheese, and pungent garlic creates a robust flavor profile that stands up beautifully to pasta. It is versatile enough to toss with hot noodles, stir into soups, or use as a vibrant topping for vegetables. Quick to blend and easy to store, this sauce brings the taste of Italy to your table with a healthy twist.
Ingredients
  • 2 cup Fresh basil leaves; packed
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese; freshly grated
  • 1 clove Garlic
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Pepper; freshly ground
  • 1/3 cup Chicken stock; preferably homemade
Directions
  1. 1
    Place the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper into the bowl of a food processor fitted with the metal blade.
  2. 2
    Pulse the mixture several times until the ingredients are finely chopped and well combined.
  3. 3
    With the machine running, slowly drizzle the chicken stock through the feed tube.
  4. 4
    Continue processing, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed, until the pesto is smooth and creamy.
  5. 5
    Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 113.8kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 6.5g10%
Saturated Fat 3.7g19%
Cholesterol 17.6mg6%
Sodium 313.4mg14%
Total Carbohydrate 4.1g2%
Dietary Fiber 1.9g8%
Sugars 0.5g
Protein 10.8g22%

* 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

Storage: The pesto can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pesto to prevent discoloration, then refrigerate.

Freezing: To freeze, spoon the pesto into ice cube trays and freeze until hard. Once solid, pop the cubes out and seal them in zip-close bags, removing as much air as possible. They will keep for up to 6 months at 0&# 194;°F.

Serving Suggestions: Thaw frozen cubes before use if desired, though they can often be added directly to hot dishes. Serve over hot cooked pasta, toss with cooked vegetables, or drop a cube into soups, especially bean soups, for a burst of flavor.

Keywords: pesto, basil, lean, low-fat, italian, sauce, parmesan, garlic, chicken stock, vegetarian, healthy, pasta sauce, blender, fresh herbs, quick recipe, meal prep, freezable, light, herb sauce, homemade
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/lean-pesto/