Ready in just 5 minutes, this creamy and tasty lemon pesto is the perfect dressing for the summer! Save the recipe by @Italy_alfresco and enjoy a refreshing and zesty sauce that will elevate your dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 lemons with edible skin
- 40g pine nuts
- 50g Parmigiano Reggiano, grated
- 1 handful of parsley
- 1 bunch of basil
- ½ clove of garlic
- Extra-virgin olive oil to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Salt to taste
Method
Preparing the Lemon Pesto
- Prepare the Lemons: Squeeze the juice of the lemons into a blender or food processor. Add the zest of the lemons for extra flavor.
- Add Ingredients to Blender: Add the pine nuts, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper to the blender with the lemon juice and zest.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Now add the grated Parmigiano Reggiano, ½ clove of garlic, fresh basil leaves, and parsley to the blender.
- Blend: Blend all the ingredients together until you achieve a creamy consistency. Adjust the amount of olive oil to reach your desired thickness.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the pesto and add more salt or pepper if needed. Blend again briefly to incorporate any additional seasoning.
Using the Lemon Pesto
- Cooking the Pasta: Cook your preferred pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- Combine with Pasta: Add a couple of tablespoons of the lemon pesto to a pan over low heat. Add the cooked pasta and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and the sauce is creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the pasta with a fresh basil leaf and serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy and refreshing lemon pesto pasta!
Tips and Variations
- Nuts: Substitute pine nuts with almonds, walnuts, or cashews for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese: Use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmigiano Reggiano for a sharper taste.
- Herbs: Add other fresh herbs like mint or cilantro for a unique twist.
- Vegan Option: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmigiano Reggiano to make the pesto vegan-friendly.
- Storage: Store any leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for single-use portions.
Nutritional Information
This lemon pesto is packed with healthy fats from the olive oil and pine nuts, protein from the cheese, and vitamins from the fresh herbs. Adjust portion sizes to fit your dietary needs and preferences.
Serving Suggestions
- Pasta: The most classic way to use lemon pesto is with pasta. Toss it with spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta shape.
- Salads: Drizzle over a fresh salad for a zesty and creamy dressing.
- Sandwiches: Spread on bread for a delicious sandwich or wrap filling.
- Grilled Vegetables: Use as a dipping sauce for grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus.
- Seafood: Pair with grilled or baked fish for a light and flavorful dish.
This creamy and tasty lemon pesto is a refreshing and versatile sauce that will add a burst of flavor to any dish. With its quick preparation time and delicious taste, it’s perfect for summer meals. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe!
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Lemon Pesto
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your lemons, herbs, and garlic are fresh for the best flavor.
- Blend to Desired Consistency: Adjust the amount of olive oil to achieve your preferred pesto thickness.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning as needed before using it in your dish.
- Combine with Pasta Water: When tossing with pasta, use reserved pasta water to help create a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.
Share the Delight
If you’ve enjoyed making and eating this lemon pesto, share the recipe with your friends and family. It’s a fun and easy recipe that adds a delicious touch to any meal.
Final Thoughts
This lemon pesto recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful sauce, and savor every refreshing bite. Happy cooking and see you in the next recipe!
This recipe transforms basic ingredients into a gourmet sauce with minimal effort. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying texture of this lemon pesto, a delightful addition to any meal. Happy cooking!
