Introduction

Pea pesto is a vibrant and fresh twist on the classic basil pesto. It’s a versatile condiment that can brighten up many dishes, from pasta and sandwiches to salads. The sweet and slightly nutty flavor of peas combined with nuts and cheese makes for a delightful spread or sauce that’s as nutritious as it is tasty.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Fresh peas – 250g (can be frozen peas if fresh are not available)
– Parmesan cheese – 50g, grated
– Pine nuts – 50g, toasted
– Extra virgin olive oil – 100ml
– Fresh basil – a handful, roughly chopped
– Lemon juice – from 1/2 lemon
– Salt and pepper – to taste

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peas

Start by boiling a small pot of salted water. Add the frozen peas and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender. Once cooked, drain the peas and immediately plunge them into a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, add the cooled peas, a handful of fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 3: Add Olive Oil

With the food processor running, drizzle in a good amount of extra virgin olive oil until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.

Step 4: Season to Taste

Taste your pea pesto and season it with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the consistency by adding more olive oil if necessary.

Step 5: Store the Pesto

Transfer the pea pesto to a clean jar. If not using immediately, cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation, then seal the jar and refrigerate.

Notes

Freshness Tip

For the best flavor, use fresh peas if they are in season, and make sure the basil is fresh as well.

Substitutions

You can substitute pine nuts with walnuts or almonds if desired, and nutritional yeast can be used instead of Parmesan for a vegan option.

Serving Suggestions

This pea pesto works wonderfully as a pasta sauce, a spread on sandwiches, or a dip for vegetable sticks.

Storage Information

Pea pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to three months.

Cook techniques

Blanching

Blanching is a technique where food is briefly cooked in boiling water and then quickly cooled in ice water. This method is great for preserving the vibrant color and flavor of ingredients, particularly for the peas in the pea pesto.

Blending

Blending combines ingredients into a smooth consistency. For the pea pesto, use a food processor to blend the ingredients together until they are well mixed and creamy.

Seasoning

Seasoning is the process of adding salt or other spices to enhance the flavor of a dish. In this recipe, balancing flavors is essential to make the pea pesto vibrant and delicious.

Storage

Proper storage is important to maintain the freshness of your pesto. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prolong its shelf life.

FAQ

Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen peas work perfectly in the recipe and can save you time in preparation.

How long can I store the pea pesto in the fridge?

The pea pesto can be stored in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container.

Can I freeze pea pesto?

Yes, pea pesto can be frozen. For best results, freeze it in small portions to make it easier to use later.

What can I serve pea pesto with?

Pea pesto is versatile and can be served with pasta, spread on sandwiches, or used as a dip for vegetables.

Conclusion

This pea pesto is a vibrant and versatile condiment that adds a fresh flavor to various dishes. It’s not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more greens into your meals. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe to suit your taste preferences!

More recipes suggestions and combination

Pasta Salad with Pea Pesto

Toss cooked pasta with pea pesto, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella for a refreshing summer salad.

Pea Pesto Spread

Use pea pesto as a spread on sandwiches or bruschetta for an easy and flavorful appetizer.

Roasted Vegetables

Drizzle pea pesto over roasted vegetables to enhance their flavor and add a burst of color.

Grilled Chicken Marinade

Marinate chicken breasts in pea pesto before grilling for a juicy and herb-infused meal.

Pizza Topping

Use pea pesto as a base sauce on pizza, topped with goat cheese and arugula for a unique twist.

Soup Enhancer

Swirl pea pesto into soups for an extra layer of flavor and a touch of green.

Deviled Eggs

Mix pea pesto into the yolk mixture for deviled eggs for a modern and delicious twist on this classic.