Parsley Pesto Recipe

Parsley pesto is a delightful twist on the classic Italian sauce, incorporating the refreshing flavors of parsley, kale, and tarragon. This vibrant pesto is perfect for adding a zesty touch to your dishes. It’s a versatile condiment that pairs well with pasta, grilled vegetables, or even as a spread on sandwiches. The addition of hazelnuts provides a rich, nutty flavor, while a hint of lemon juice adds brightness. Although traditionally pine nuts are used in pesto, hazelnuts offer a unique taste that complements the fresh herbs. The process is simple, quick, and doesn’t require cooking skills beyond basic kitchen tasks. You’ll find that this version is not only packed with flavor but also loaded with nutrients. Perfect for those looking to incorporate more greens into their meals, this pesto offers a vibrant green color that makes any dish pop. Whether you’re a pesto enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 200 g kale leaves
• 150 g parsley leaves
• 50 g tarragon leaves
• 30 g hazelnuts

Spices and Sauces

• 10 g lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic
• 5 g sugar
• 3 g salt
• 3 g lemon zest
• 3 g cayenne pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Greens: Start by blanching the kale leaves in boiling water for about 5 minutes. This will help maintain their vibrant color and soften them slightly. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to cool.
2. Blanch Herbs: Next, blanch the tarragon and parsley leaves for around 2 minutes. Quickly transfer them to the ice bath as well, which will stop the cooking process and preserve their color.
3. Dry Ingredients: Once cooled, carefully drain the greens and herbs and gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
4. Prepare the Nuts: Lightly toast the hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn, stirring frequently for about 3 minutes.
5. Blend Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the blanched kale, parsley, tarragon, and toasted hazelnuts.
6. Add Flavors: Add the garlic clove, lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, salt, and cayenne pepper to the blender.
7. Mix Well: Blend the mixture until smooth. You might need to scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure everything is well incorporated.
8. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add a pinch more salt or sugar according to your preference.
9. Store Properly: Transfer the pesto to a clean jar or container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
10. Enjoy: Use as a topping for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a flavor enhancer for meats and vegetables.

Tips

• Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of hazelnuts, try walnuts or almonds instead.
• Texture: For a chunkier pesto, pulse the ingredients instead of blending fully smooth.
• Storage: For longer storage, you can freeze the pesto in ice cube trays and defrost as needed.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 120 per serving
• Protein: 3 g
• Fats: 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g

Variations

• Vegan: Replace cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
• Nut-Free: Use sunflower seeds if you have a nut allergy.
• Spicy: Increase the cayenne pepper for an added kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with fresh baguette slices or warm pita bread.
• Serve alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish.
• Toss with your favorite pasta and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Best Places

1. La Parisien Bistro - Authentic Italian bistro known for their flavorful pesto dishes. Location: 24 Rue des Abbesses, Paris, France.
2. Green Delight Eatery - Famous for their healthy and vibrant green dishes. Location: 35 Main Street, New York, USA.
3. Pesto Palace - A haven for pesto lovers offering a wide variety of pestos. Location: 10 Via della Scala, Florence, Italy.
4. Basil & Thyme - Known for unique twists on traditional recipes. Location: 56 Calle Mayor, Madrid, Spain.
5. Nature's Bounty Café - Specializing in organic and farm-fresh ingredients. Location: 123 Green Lane, Sydney, Australia.
6. Leafy Lovers Bistro - Environmentally conscious bistro with an emphasis on local produce. Location: 345 Park Road, Vancouver, Canada.
7. Mediterranean Flavors - Celebrates Mediterranean cuisine with a diverse menu. Location: 78 Marina Street, Tel Aviv, Israel.
8. Herb Haven Café - Focuses on herbs and natural ingredients. Location: 902 Herb Lane, Dublin, Ireland.
9. Green Gourmet - Offers a variety of plant-based dishes. Location: 67 Lucky Lane, Hong Kong, China.
10. Eden's Table - Farm-to-table dining experience unique to the region. Location: 45 Harvest Road, Cape Town, South Africa.