How to Make Walnut and Parsley Pesto - A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to pesto, most people are familiar with the traditional recipe made with basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. But there are countless variations of this delicious Italian sauce, and one of the most underrated is walnut and parsley pesto. This pesto has a unique, earthy flavor and a slightly crunchy texture that sets it apart from the more common versions. It's perfect for those looking to mix things up and try something new, or for those who want to put a tasty twist on their ...

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Ingredients

  • 4 cloves garlic, sliced
  • 1 large pinch kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • ½ cup chopped raw walnuts
  • ½ cup chopped Italian parsley
  • Juice from one lemon
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • water, if needed

Information

  • Servings: 8
  • Yield: 1 cup

  • Place garlic and salt in a mortar; smash and mash with the pestle until it becomes a paste, 5 to 8 minutes. Add walnuts; mash walnuts into a paste until you reach your desired texture (coarse or smoother), another 5 to 8 minutes. Add parsley and mash to break up and blend with the walnut/garlic mixture, about 4 minutes. Add lemon juice and olive oil; stir, mash, and emulsify liquids into the mixture until it becomes very thick and well blended, 8 to 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings. If mixture seems too thick, whisk in a tablespoon of water, or as needed.
  • Spread on bread, use on pizza or pasta, or on roasted chicken. The taste is just like garlic butter, so use it as such.
  • Nutrition

    85 cal.

    • Total Fat: 8g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
    • Sodium: 78mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 2g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Total Sugars: 0g
    • Protein: 1g
    • Vitamin C: 9mg
    • Calcium: 16mg
    • Iron: 1mg
    • Potassium: 69mg