Arugula Pistachio Pesto
The ultimate green sauce for all occasions! This Arugula Pistachio Pesto is creamy, nutty, and incredibly easy to make. With fresh arugula and toasted pistachios, it’s the perfect addition to pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip. Make it tonight and taste the freshness!
Equipment
- Blender
- Food Processor
- Chef's Knife
Ingredients
- 2 ounces arugula (about 2 cups, packed)
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup shelled pistachios lightly toasted
- 1 clove garlic roughly chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- to taste sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- 1. Start by placing the arugula into the bowl of a food processor or blender. This is where the magic begins! Make sure to pack the leaves lightly as you add them in.
- 2. Next, pour in the olive oil. This will help emulsify the ingredients when you start blending.
- 3. Add the toasted pistachios to the mix. Their nutty flavor will shine through in the finished pesto.
- 4. Now, toss in the garlic clove. It adds just the right amount of aromatic depth to the sauce.
- 5. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes to give your pesto a hint of heat. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
- 6. It’s time to blend! Pulse the mixture until it becomes smooth, which should take about thirty seconds. Keep an eye on the consistency; you want it creamy but not overly runny.
- 7. Once blended, taste your pesto and season it with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. This is crucial for enhancing the flavors.
- 8. If you’re not using it immediately, transfer your pesto to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it will keep well for up to one day.
- 9. Before serving, remember to bring the pesto back to room temperature for the best flavor. It’s wonderful drizzled over pasta, chicken, or even spread on bread!
Notes
- Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to help preserve freshness.
- Tip 2: This pesto freezes well! Just pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze for portioned servings you can use later.
- Tip 3: Use it as a dip for bread or veggies, or as a topping for grilled meats.
- Tip 4: Incorporate some grated parmesan for a creamier texture and added flavor.
- Tip 5: Try swapping pistachios for walnuts or cashews if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.