Lemon-Thyme Pesto

This Lemon-Thyme Pesto offers a refreshing twist on traditional basil pesto, perfect for brightening up simple dishes. The combination of fresh parsley, toasted pine nuts, and aromatic thyme creates a complex flavor profile that is both herbal and zesty. It serves as an excellent marinade for chicken, a drizzle for roasted vegetables, or a sauce for pasta. The addition of fresh lemon juice and zest ensures a tangy finish that cuts through the richness of the olive oil. Ideal for spring and summer meals, this versatile sauce brings a burst of freshness to your table. It is easy to prepare with common pantry staples and fresh herbs, making it a reliable option for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests who appreciate bold, clean flavors.

Cuisine: Italian

Courses: Sauces & Condiments

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 1

Calories: 145.8

Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Description

This Lemon-Thyme Pesto offers a refreshing twist on traditional basil pesto, perfect for brightening up simple dishes. The combination of fresh parsley, toasted pine nuts, and aromatic thyme creates a complex flavor profile that is both herbal and zesty. It serves as an excellent marinade for chicken, a drizzle for roasted vegetables, or a sauce for pasta. The addition of fresh lemon juice and zest ensures a tangy finish that cuts through the richness of the olive oil. Ideal for spring and summer meals, this versatile sauce brings a burst of freshness to your table. It is easy to prepare with common pantry staples and fresh herbs, making it a reliable option for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests who appreciate bold, clean flavors.

Ingredients

2/3 cup Packed stemmed fresh parsley
1/4 cup Pine nuts
1 tablespoon Ground dried thyme
1 tablespoon Grated lemon peel
1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup Olive oil

Directions

1
Place the fresh parsley, pine nuts, ground dried thyme, grated lemon peel, and fresh lemon juice into a food processor.
2
Pulse the ingredients until they are finely chopped and combined.
3
With the processor running, gradually drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
4
Stop the processor and scrape down the sides if necessary to ensure even blending.
5
Taste the pesto and season with salt and black pepper to your preference.
6
If the pesto appears too thick or dry, add additional olive oil, one teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 1

Amount Per Serving
Calories 145.8kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 15.1g24%
Saturated Fat 2.1g11%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 1.3mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 3.4g2%
Dietary Fiber 0.9g4%
Sugars 1.7g
Protein 0.3g1%

* 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: Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pesto to prevent oxidation. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before using.

Variations: For a nut-free version, substitute pine nuts with toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts.

Tip: If you prefer a brighter flavor, add an extra tablespoon of lemon juice.

Keywords: pesto, lemon, thyme, parsley, pine nuts, olive oil, sauce, herb sauce, vegan, vegetarian, pasta sauce, marinade, italian, fresh herbs, citrus

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/lemon-thyme-pesto/