Pesto without Pine Nuts

pesto recipe without pine nuts next to walnuts, basil and fresh lemon.

Pesto without pine Nuts is quick, easy and full of flavor. The zesty tart lemon flavor in compliments the richness of the nuts and parmesan with a nice pop of garlic making the perfect pesto recipe without pine nuts. You can use any nut in place of pine nuts such as walnuts, cashews, almonds and more!

Course Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Servings

Calories 344kcal

Author Aubrey

Cost 15

Equipment

Food Processor or Blender

Ingredients

1 cup raw unsalted walnuts or other nuts of choice (cashews, almonds, etc.) halves and pieces
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 large garlic cloves (pressed or minced) about ½ tablespoon pressed/minced
3 tablespoon lemon juice
1¼ oz fresh basil 1 cup packed
¼ cup parmesan cheese (shredded)
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Mince or press garlic though garlic press. Even though you are using a food processor, sometimes garlic can stick to the sides and not be fully chopped/combined.
In food processor, combine walnuts (or nuts of choice), olive oil, pressed garlic, lemon juice, basil leaves and Parmesan cheese. Blend to desired consistency

Notes

This pesto is chunkier and tighter. If you would like to stretch, you can use more oil (start with ⅛ cup).

You can also use meyer lemons which are sweeter than normal lemons. This gives this recipe a beautiful sweetness. If you use regular lemons, you may wish to add ½ tsp. sugar if you would like a subtle sweetness.

Nutrition