Golden Pesto
Golden Pesto is a vibrant, nutty sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and basil, perfect for pasta or bread, offering a rich, savory flavor with a hint of warmth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place olive oil, reconstituted sun-dried tomatoes, torn basil, walnuts, and grated Parmesan cheese into a food processor.
- Process until smooth.
- With the machine running, add hot water gradually, blending well.
- Can be spooned over hot pasta or spread on French bread.
- Do not heat the pesto.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cream cheese. If you're out of walnuts, pine nuts or almonds can be excellent substitutes. Use fresh basil for the best flavor, and ensure the sun-dried tomatoes are well-rehydrated for a smoother blend. This pesto can also serve as a base for Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Spoon this golden pesto over hot pasta for a vibrant meal, or spread it on toasted French bread for an appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Bagel And Pita Chips for a quick snack. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To prevent browning, cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil. This pesto is not suitable for freezing due to its fresh ingredients, but it can be used in various dishes like pasta or as a spread.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Golden Pesto contains roughly 371 calories, with 10g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese with a non-dairy option?
Yes, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Alternatively, there are plant-based Parmesan substitutes available in stores that can work well in this recipe.
How can I make the pesto spicier?
To add some heat, you can incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while blending. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference to achieve the desired heat level.
Is this pesto suitable for freezing?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, if you do want to freeze it, consider omitting the cheese before freezing and adding it after thawing. Store in ice cube trays for easy portioning.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).