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Pumpkin Seed Pesto Recipe

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3.9 from 5 reviews

This vibrant and nutty Pumpkin Seed Pesto is a delightful twist on traditional pesto, making use of roasted pumpkin seeds for a rich, earthy flavor. Perfect as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a topping for grilled vegetables, this no-cook pesto blends fresh basil, parsley, garlic, Parmesan, and zesty lemon juice with olive oil to create a versatile and flavorful condiment.

Ingredients

Seeds and Cheese

  • 1/2 cup shelled pumpkin seeds, roasted
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Herbs and Flavorings

  • 3/4 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 3/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Kosher salt, to taste

Oil

  • 1/2 cup olive oil

Instructions

  1. Gather Ingredients: Collect all the required ingredients as specified, ensuring the pumpkin seeds are roasted for optimal flavor.
  2. Blend Seeds, Cheese, and Garlic: In a food processor, combine the roasted pumpkin seeds, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves. Pulse on and off for about 20 seconds until the seeds are almost ground, creating a crumbly texture.
  3. Add Herbs and Lemon Juice: Add the fresh basil leaves, fresh parsley leaves, and fresh lemon juice to the food processor along with the olive oil. Continue pulsing on and off for about 40 seconds, scraping down the sides with a spatula as needed. The goal is to combine ingredients into a coarse paste rather than a smooth sauce.
  4. Season and Adjust: Transfer the pesto to a bowl or storage jar. Taste and adjust seasoning with kosher salt as needed, considering the saltiness of the roasted pumpkin seeds.
  5. Serve or Store: Use the pesto immediately or refrigerate it for up to two days. It can be served with pasta, as a spread, or a dip.

Notes

  • The pumpkin seeds should be roasted prior to making the pesto for enhanced flavor.
  • Do not overprocess the mixture to maintain a pleasant, slightly coarse texture.
  • The pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days for best freshness.
  • Adjust salt carefully because roasted pumpkin seeds can vary in salt content.
  • This pesto is versatile and can be used in many dishes beyond pasta, including sandwiches and grilled veggies.

Find it online: https://recipeplenty.com/pumpkin-seed-pesto-recipe/