Pesto With Spinach

This vibrant green sauce swaps traditional basil for nutrient-dense spinach, creating a milder, earthier flavor profile perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip. The combination of fresh spinach, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese delivers a creamy texture and rich umami depth. Olive oil binds the ingredients into a smooth, luxurious paste that retains the bright color of the greens. It&# 226;ÂÂs a quick, no-cook condiment that elevates simple weeknight dinners. The spinach adds a subtle sweetness that balances the sharpness of the garlic and cheese. Ideal for drizzling over roasted vegetables, stirring into risotto, or spreading on crostini, this versatile sauce brings fresh Italian-inspired flavors to any meal without the overpowering intensity of basil.

Cuisine: Italian

Courses: Sauces & Condiments

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 4

Calories: 120

Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegetarian

Description

This vibrant green sauce swaps traditional basil for nutrient-dense spinach, creating a milder, earthier flavor profile perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip. The combination of fresh spinach, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese delivers a creamy texture and rich umami depth. Olive oil binds the ingredients into a smooth, luxurious paste that retains the bright color of the greens. It&# 226;ÂÂs a quick, no-cook condiment that elevates simple weeknight dinners. The spinach adds a subtle sweetness that balances the sharpness of the garlic and cheese. Ideal for drizzling over roasted vegetables, stirring into risotto, or spreading on crostini, this versatile sauce brings fresh Italian-inspired flavors to any meal without the overpowering intensity of basil.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh spinach, tightly packed
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup pine nuts or walnuts
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, peeled
2 tablespoons freshly grated Romano cheese
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt, to taste

Directions

1
Place the spinach, pine nuts, garlic, and salt in a food processor fitted with a steel blade or a blender jar.
2
Pulse several times to chop and begin blending the ingredients into a coarse mixture.
3
Turn the machine on high speed and slowly pour in the olive oil in a steady stream while blending.
4
If using a blender, stop and start the machine occasionally to scrape down the sides and ensure even blending.
5
Continue blending until the mixture forms a smooth, consistent paste.
6
Transfer the pureed mixture to a mixing bowl.
7
Stir in the Parmesan and Romano cheeses until thoroughly combined.
8
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if necessary.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 120kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 11g17%
Saturated Fat 2g10%
Cholesterol 5mg2%
Sodium 150mg7%
Total Carbohydrate 3g1%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 0.5g
Protein 2g4%

* 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 vegan version, omit the Parmesan and Romano cheeses or substitute with nutritional yeast.

You can substitute fresh parsley for the spinach to make a parsley pesto variation.

Store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays and transfer to a freezer bag.

To prevent the pesto from turning brown, pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top before sealing the container.

Keywords: spinach pesto, green sauce, italian, pasta sauce, pine nuts, parmesan, garlic, olive oil, vegan option, quick recipe, no cook, food processor, blender, fresh herbs, condiment, vegetarian, mediterranean, healthy, easy

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/pesto-with-spinach/