This Spinach Walnut Pesto is a fresh, nutty twist on the classic! Replacing basil with spinach and swapping pine nuts for earthy walnuts, this version is rich, vibrant, and loaded with nutrients.
It’s the perfect way to use up fresh spinach and create a versatile sauce that’s as delicious on pasta as it is spread on sandwiches, drizzled over roasted veggies, or swirled into soups.
Quick, easy, and irresistibly creamy, this pesto will become your new go-to!
Ingredients
You only need a handful of ingredients to make this vibrant pesto:
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, packed
- ½ cup walnuts, toasted for extra flavor
- 1 clove garlic (or 2 if you love a garlicky kick!)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more if needed
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Whip up this spinach walnut pesto in just a few easy steps:
- Toast the walnuts (optional):
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from heat and let cool. - Blend the base ingredients:
In a food processor or blender, combine the spinach, toasted walnuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped. - Add the liquids:
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Add the lemon juice, and blend until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed. - Season to taste:
Add salt and pepper to taste. If the pesto is too thick, add a little more olive oil or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency. - Store and enjoy:
Transfer the pesto to a jar or airtight container. Refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Tweaks and Additions
Make this pesto your own with a few creative twists:
- Add herbs:
Throw in a handful of parsley or cilantro for extra depth. - Make it vegan:
Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast for a cheesy, dairy-free alternative. - Nut-free option:
Substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. - Creamy version:
Add a ripe avocado for a rich, velvety texture. - Zesty kick:
Add a bit more lemon juice or some zest for a brighter flavor.
This Spinach Walnut Pesto is a fresh take on a classic favorite. It’s perfect for adding a pop of flavor to everyday dishes while sneaking in extra greens.
Whether you toss it with pasta, spoon it over grilled chicken, or serve it as a dip, this pesto is guaranteed to brighten up your table. Enjoy every nutty, garlicky, spinach-packed bite!