24 Jan 2024

Mint Pesto

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This Mint Pesto is a vibrant and aromatic sauce that's ready in just 10 minutes! A delightful blend of fresh mint and parsley leaves, combined with the nuttiness of pine nuts and the richness of Parmesan cheese, this pesto is a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you're drizzling it over pasta, spreading it on a sandwich, or using it as a dip, it's a quick and easy way to elevate your dishes. The lemon juice adds a zesty kick, making it a refreshing choice for all seasons.

Mint Pesto

Note from Ana

 

Hello, culinary adventurers!

I'm excited to share with you a recipe that's a game-changer in my kitchen: Mint Pesto. This zesty, green sauce is a burst of flavor that can transform any ordinary dish into something extraordinary. Made with fresh mint and parsley leaves, and jazzed up with Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and a splash of lemon juice, this pesto is a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Here's why you should definitely give Mint Pesto a whirl:

  • Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 10 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those who are always on the go but still want to enjoy homemade goodness.
  • Versatility: This pesto isn't just for pasta! Use it as a spread for sandwiches, a marinade for meats, or even a dipping sauce for veggies. The possibilities are endless.
  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of mint, parsley, and lemon juice creates a refreshing and invigorating flavor profile that will liven up any dish.
  • Nutrient-Packed: Mint and parsley are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making this not just a tasty choice but a healthy one too.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just cooking for family, this pesto is sure to win hearts. It's a dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

So, if you're keen to add a burst of flavor and freshness to your meals, Mint Pesto is the way to go. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you'll have a sauce that's bound to impress.

Enjoy the vibrant flavors, and don't hesitate to share this dish with friends and family. After all, good food is meant to be shared!

Best,

Ana

How to prepare Mint Pesto

INGREDIENTS

For the pesto:

  • 2 cups fresh mint leaves, packed
  • 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, packed
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts
  • 1 garlic clove, peeled
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon

 

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the fresh mint and parsley leaves. Grate the Parmesan cheese and peel the garlic cloves.
  2. Toast the Pine Nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until golden brown. Be careful not to burn them.
  3. Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the mint leaves, parsley leaves, grated Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
  4. Add the Oil: With the food processor running, slowly add the olive oil in a steady stream. Stop the processor and scrape down the sides as needed.
  5. Season the Pesto: Add salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to the mixture. Pulse a few more times to combine.
  6. Taste and Adjust: Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  7. Store or Serve: You can serve the Fresh Mint and Parsley Pesto immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  8. Dobar tek!

How to Serve and Pair:

Serving Suggestions: Mint Pesto is a versatile condiment that can be used in various culinary applications. It's perfect as a spread on bruschetta or sandwiches, as a sauce for pasta, or as a garnish for grilled meats or vegetables. Its vibrant flavor can also enhance the taste of simple dishes like roasted potatoes or a Caprese salad.

Pairing: This pesto pairs well with a variety of wines. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements its fresh, herbal notes. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or a mint-infused iced tea can echo the pesto's refreshing qualities.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian-Friendly: This pesto is suitable for vegetarians.
  • Nut Allergies: Contains pine nuts. For nut allergies, substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin, or omit entirely.
  • Gluten-Free: This pesto is naturally gluten-free.
  • Cheese Alternatives: For a vegan version, use a plant-based Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast.

Make-Ahead Tips:

  • Herb Preparation: Wash and dry the mint and parsley leaves ahead of time, storing them in the refrigerator until ready to use.
  • Pine Nuts: Toast the pine nuts in advance and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature until needed.
  • Storing the Pesto: The pesto can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To preserve its color, you can top it with a thin layer of olive oil.
  • Freezing Option: Mint Pesto freezes well. Store it in small portions in a freezer-safe container or ice cube trays for easy use. Defrost in the refrigerator before use.

Mint Pesto

Frequently Asked Questions for Mint Pesto

 

Is Mint Pesto vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. It includes Parmesan cheese, so it's not vegan, but you can use a vegan cheese substitute if you prefer.

Can I use a different nut instead of pine nuts?

Absolutely! Almonds or walnuts can be a good substitute for pine nuts. Just make sure to toast them as well.

How long can I store this pesto?

You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, you can also freeze it.

Is the lemon juice necessary?

The lemon juice adds a zesty kick and helps to preserve the color of the pesto. However, you can omit it if you prefer.

Can I use this pesto for dishes other than pasta?

Absolutely! This pesto is incredibly versatile. Use it as a spread, a dip, or even a marinade for meats and vegetables.

Mint Pesto Recipe

Fresh Mint Pesto

 

Mint Pesto

This Mint Pesto is a vibrant and aromatic sauce that's ready in just 10 minutes - delightful blend of fresh mint and parsley leaves, combined with the nuttiness of pine nuts and the richness of Parmesan cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Sauce
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1/3 cups pine nuts
  • 2 cups fresh mint leaves packed
  • 1 cup fresh parsley leaves packed
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 garlic clove peeled
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • juice of 1 lemon

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the fresh mint and parsley leaves. Grate the Parmesan cheese and peel the garlic cloves.
  • Toast the Pine Nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until golden brown. Be careful not to burn them.
  • Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the mint leaves, parsley leaves, grated Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
  • Add the Oil: With the food processor running, slowly add the olive oil in a steady stream. Stop the processor and scrape down the sides as needed.
  • Season the Pesto: Add salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to the mixture. Pulse a few more times to combine.
  • Taste and Adjust: Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  • Store or Serve: You can serve the Fresh Mint and Parsley Pesto immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • Dobar tek!
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Follow Ana:
Welcome to my culinary haven! My name is Ana, and I'm the passionate voice behind World Cuisines Network. Here, I share recipes that have not only won the approval of my family but have also stood the test of time in our kitchen. My goal is to introduce the rich tapestry of global flavors right to your family table. Thank you for dropping in! We're thrilled to have you join us.
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