Chef John's Almond Arugula Pesto

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Are you tired of the same old pesto recipes? Looking to add a little twist to your pasta dish? Well, look no further! Chef John's Almond Arugula Pesto is here to take your taste buds on a flavorful journey.

Chef John's Almond Arugula Pesto
Prep
10 min
Cook
5 min
Total
15 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil.

  2. Add the arugula to the boiling water and cook for approximately 30 seconds, or until it turns bright green.

  3. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked arugula to a bowl filled with ice water. Allow it to sit in the ice water for a few minutes until it becomes cold.

  4. Drain the arugula and gently squeeze out any excess water.

  5. In a blender, combine the arugula, olive oil, almonds, and garlic. Blend until the mixture becomes a coarse puree, making sure to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.

  6. Transfer the puree to a bowl and season it with salt.

About this recipe

Are you tired of the same old pesto recipes? Looking to add a little twist to your pasta dish? Well, look no further! Chef John's Almond Arugula Pesto is here to take your taste buds on a flavorful journey.

Why Almond Arugula Pesto?

Traditional pesto is made with pine nuts, but why not switch it up with almonds? Almonds add a delightful crunch and a subtly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the peppery notes of arugula. It's a match made in culinary heaven!

A Burst of Flavor

Imagine a spoonful of Chef John's Almond Arugula Pesto - the vibrant green color, the aroma of fresh herbs, and the explosion of flavors on your palate. It's like a symphony of tastes, dancing together in perfect harmony.

Simple Ingredients, Extraordinary Results

Chef John's Almond Arugula Pesto is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. No need for fancy or hard-to-find items. Just a handful of almonds, fresh arugula, olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

A Versatile Addition

Not only is Chef John's Almond Arugula Pesto perfect for pasta dishes, but it also shines as a spread or dip. Slather it on sandwiches, mix it with cream cheese for a flavorful dip, or use it as a marinade for grilled chicken or fish. The possibilities are endless!

Quick and Easy

No need to spend hours in the kitchen to create a delicious pesto. With Chef John's recipe, you can have a homemade pesto ready in a matter of minutes. Just toss the ingredients in a food processor, give it a whirl, and voila! You have a flavorful sauce that will elevate any dish.

A Healthy Twist

Not only does Chef John's Almond Arugula Pesto taste amazing, but it's also a healthier alternative to traditional pesto. Almonds are packed with nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats, while arugula adds a dose of antioxidants. It's a guilt-free indulgence!

In Conclusion

Chef John's Almond Arugula Pesto is a game-changer in the world of pesto. With its unique combination of almonds and arugula, it brings a burst of flavor to any dish. Whether you're a pasta lover, a sandwich enthusiast, or a grilling aficionado, this pesto will elevate your culinary creations to new heights. So, grab your food processor and get ready to embark on a delicious adventure!

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with different nuts like walnuts or cashews. Each nut will bring its own unique flavor to the pesto.

. Can I substitute arugula with another leafy green?

Absolutely! If you're not a fan of arugula, you can try using basil, spinach, or even kale. Just keep in mind that it will alter the taste slightly.

. How long can I store Chef John's Almond Arugula Pesto?

Your homemade pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to give it a good stir before using.

. Can I freeze the pesto?

Yes, you can! If you have leftover pesto, transfer it to an ice cube tray and freeze. Once frozen, pop out the pesto cubes and store them in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to three months.

. How much pesto should I use per serving of pasta?

It depends on your personal preference. Start with a tablespoon or two and adjust according to your taste. You can always add more if needed.

. Can I make Chef John's Almond Arugula Pesto vegan?

Absolutely! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. The pesto will still be bursting with flavor.

. Can I use roasted almonds?

Roasted almonds will add an extra depth of flavor to the pesto. So, if you have them on hand, go ahead and use them. It will be delicious!

. Can I use the pesto as a pizza sauce?

Definitely! Spread a thin layer of Chef John's Almond Arugula Pesto on your pizza crust before adding your favorite toppings. It will take your pizza night to a whole new level.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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