Pesto is a versatile and delicious sauce that can elevate any dish, from pasta to grilled vegetables. While traditional pesto is made with basil and pine nuts, this Dill, Lemon & Almond Pesto offers a refreshing twist. The combination of dill’s fresh, herbaceous flavor, lemon’s zesty brightness, and almonds’ rich nuttiness creates a unique and flavorful pesto that you’ll want to put on everything.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh dill, stems removed
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley (optional, for added depth)
- 1/2 cup almonds, toasted
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Method:
- Prepare the Almonds:
- Start by toasting the almonds to bring out their flavor. Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir frequently until they’re golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a food processor, combine the fresh dill, parsley (if using), toasted almonds, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Pulse the mixture several times to break down the ingredients.
- Add the Olive Oil:
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Continue to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can adjust the consistency by adding more olive oil if you prefer a thinner pesto.
- Season the Pesto:
- Taste the pesto and season it with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to your liking. Blend again briefly to incorporate the seasonings.
- Store and Serve:
- Transfer the Dill, Lemon & Almond Pesto to a clean jar or airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Serve the pesto with your favorite pasta, spread it on sandwiches, or use it as a dip for veggies and crackers. It’s also fantastic drizzled over grilled fish, chicken, or roasted potatoes.
Tips:
- For a vegan version: Omit the Parmesan cheese and replace it with 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast.
- To freeze the pesto: Spoon the pesto into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. Transfer the pesto cubes to a freezer bag, and you’ll have ready-to-use portions whenever you need them.
- Experiment with herbs: While dill is the star of this pesto, you can experiment by adding other herbs like basil or mint for a different flavor profile.
This Dill, Lemon & Almond Pesto is a delightful way to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer herbs in a new and exciting way. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta or spreading it on toast, this vibrant pesto is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen!