How to Make Cacao Nib Pesto - A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're tired of the same old basil pesto and want to try something new and exciting, then this Cacao Nib Pesto recipe is just what you need. This unique take on the classic Italian sauce adds a rich and complex flavor to any dish that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

What sets this pesto apart from the rest is the addition of cacao nibs, which are small pieces of roasted cacao beans. These little nuggets of goodness add a deep, bittersweet chocolate flavor to the pes...

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Ingredients

  • 1 ¼ ounces fresh basil leaves, stems removed
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • ¼ cup cocoa nibs
  • 3 tablespoons toasted pine nuts, divided
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon pink peppercorns
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt

Information

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Total Time: 10 mins
  • Servings: 4
  • Yield: 4 servings

  • Place basil leaves in a mini processor. Add 2 tablespoons oil, cacao nibs, 2 tablespoons pine nuts, lemon juice, peppercorns, and sea salt. Pulse until coarse. Add more oil if needed and blend into a creamy paste. Mix in remaining pine nuts.
  • Use pesto immediately or refrigerate in a glass container topped with oil to avoid browning.
  • Nutrition

    229 cal.

    • Total Fat: 22g
    • Saturated Fat: 4g
    • Sodium: 123mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 7g
    • Dietary Fiber: 4g
    • Total Sugars: 1g
    • Protein: 2g
    • Vitamin C: 3mg
    • Calcium: 20mg
    • Iron: 2mg
    • Potassium: 70mg