Walnut Pesto is a flavorful, tangy sauce that instantly enhances any meal. The earthy richness of walnuts blends with fresh herbs, bright citrus, garlic, and a touch of tanginess to create a flavorful sauce that comes together with minimal effort.
The best part of this recipe is that it comes together easily and with minimal effort. Additionally, this hassle-free recipe can be served along with any appetizer of your choice to enhance the flavor profile.
Toss it with pasta, spread it over crusty bread, or use it as a topping on roasted vegetables for an easy, flavor-packed meal. The options are endless.
The classic version is made with pine nuts, but in this recipe I have put a delicious spin on tradition by using walnuts instead. They add a rich, nutty flavor that makes the pesto just as irresistible.
Follow the complete recipe below and get it done right in no time.
Equipment Required
- Food Processor: I use it for blending all the ingredients for the sauce.
- Measuring Bowls: Use small measuring bowls to add the correct proportion of ingredients.
- Bowl: To transfer the sauce from the jar to the bowl for serving.
- Spatula: Used for scraping the sides of a jar or blender.
Walnut Pesto Ingredients and Substitutions
Note: This recipe makes 1 cup. You can increase or decrease the quantity as per the size of the gathering.
- 2 Cups Fresh Italian Basil Leaves
- ¼ Cup Walnut
- 2 Garlic Cloves: Garlic paste is a great substitute for garlic cloves that can be added to the recipe.
- ¼ Teaspoon Salt: Kosher salt is also a perfect alternative.
- ½ Teaspoon Black Pepper: You can add white pepper if black pepper is unavailable.
- ¼ Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Any processed cheese is perfect for this recipe.
- 1 Teaspoon Lemon Juice (optional)
- 2 Tablespoons Virgin Olive Oil: If you do not have olive oil, add canola oil to the recipe.
Preparation And Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 5 Minutes | – | 5 Minutes |
How To Make Walnut Pesto At Home
Step 1
Take a blender and add basil leaves, pepper, walnuts, garlic cloves, salt, and Parmesan cheese.
Step 2
Now, blend everything well.
Step 3
Then add the olive oil to the blended mixture.
Step 4
Again, pulse it for a while so the oil mixes well.
Step 5
Transfer the walnut pesto to a bowl, add some lemon juice, and serve!
Expert Tips That I Recommend
- Add fresh basil to the blender; avoid adding wilted or dark leaves to the sauce.
- I prefer adding a nutty flavor to the sauce by roasting walnuts for 2-3 minutes. It enhances taste and aroma.
- Do not overblend the sauce; blend only until everything is combined.
- You can add 1-2 cubes of ice to chill the ingredients, which helps keep the pesto sauce bright green and fresh.
- It is suggested to add Parmesan cheese at the end and avoid blending after adding the cheese.
FAQs About Walnut Pesto
Nutritional Information Per Serving
The Walnut Pesto is a perfect add-on for an appetizer, thanks to its tangy flavor. The sauce is prepared with healthy ingredients, but the addition of too much salt and cheese makes it perfect for occasional consumption. Otherwise, you can consume it in moderate portions.
| Calories | 557 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Fat | 54 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 17 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 25 g |
| Cholesterol | 22 mg |
| Sodium | 1021 mg |
| Potassium | 220 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Vitamin A | 229 IU |
| Vitamin C | 5 mg |
| Calcium | 267 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
Well, if you want, you can customize this recipe by tweaking some ingredients.
Recipe Variations For Different Diets
- Vegan Version: You can add nutritional yeast in place of cheese. This tweak will make your walnut pesto vegan.
- High Protein Version: You can add hemp seeds or silken tofu to the recipe. It will increase the protein content in the recipe.
Storing This Recipe
- Refrigerate: Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate. This way, it will remain fresh for up to 4-5 days.
What To Serve With This Recipe
The Walnut Pesto is best enjoyed with Chicken Fries or Cajun French Fries. The sauce also pairs well with Sushi Rolls and adds tangy flavor.
To add some amazing flavors, try serving it with Cornell Chicken or Grilled Shrimp.
Printable Version
Tangy Walnut Pesto Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 Cups Fresh Italian Basil Leaves
- ¼ Cup Walnut
- 2 Garlic Cloves
- ¼ Teaspoon Salt
- ½ Teaspoon Black Pepper
- ¼ Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 Teaspoon Lemon Juice (optional)
- 2 Tablespoons Virgin Olive Oil
Equipment
- Food Processor
- Measuring Bowls
- Bowl
- Spatula
Instructions
- Take a blender and add basil leaves, pepper, walnuts, garlic cloves, salt, and Parmesan cheese.
- Now, blend everything well.
- Then add the olive oil to the blended mixture.
- Again, pulse it for a while so the oil mixes well.
- Transfer the walnut pesto to a bowl, add some lemon juice, and serve!
Notes
- Add fresh basil to the blender; avoid adding wilted or dark leaves to the sauce.
- I prefer adding a nutty flavor to the sauce by roasting walnuts for 2-3 minutes. It enhances taste and aroma.
- Do not overblend the sauce; blend only until everything is combined.
- You can add 1-2 cubes of ice to chill the ingredients, which helps keep the pesto sauce bright green and fresh.
- It is suggested to add Parmesan cheese at the end and avoid blending after adding the cheese.
Nutrition
Did You Make This Recipe ?Tag @thefoodxp on Instagram and Hashtag it #thefoodxp!More Sauce Recipes That You Can Try
Conclusion
The easy-peasy walnut pesto pairs perfectly with any meal. The best thing about this sauce is its exotic flavors, which require only a handful of ingredients.
Once you try this sauce, do let me know in the comments section how it turned out. Serve and enjoy with your loved ones.
Let’s Connect
Follow Us On Our Social Media Platforms
You can subscribe to TheFoodXP to get weekly recipes in your inbox.
If you make this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and tag us in your photos on social media. We would love to share your pictures.
