Cashew Pesto with Basil, Parsley, and Parmesan

Introduction:

Meet your new favorite sauce: Cashew Pesto with Basil, Parsley, and Parmesan!

This recipe takes the traditional pesto and gives it a deliciously nutty twist by swapping out the pine nuts for buttery cashews.

The result is a rich, creamy pesto that’s bursting with fresh flavors.

We start with a generous handful of fresh basil and parsley, adding vibrant color and a fragrant aroma.

To this, we add a few cloves of garlic for that essential zing, and freshly grated Parmesan for a savory depth of flavor.

The juice of half a lemon brightens the mixture, while a good pinch of salt brings all the flavors together.

Finally, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil helps blend everything into a smooth, luscious pesto.

Simply toss all the ingredients into a blender and give it a whirl – in minutes, you’ll have a versatile pesto that’s perfect for pasta, sandwiches, salads, or as a dip for fresh veggies. It’s a quick and easy way to add a gourmet touch to your everyday meals!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cashew nuts
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more as needed)
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Begin by placing the cashew nuts, fresh basil leaves, fresh parsley leaves, and garlic cloves into a blender or food processor.
2. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and the juice of half a lemon to the blender.
3. Season with a pinch of salt.
4. Start blending the mixture on a low setting, gradually pouring in the olive oil.
5. Blend until the pesto reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. If the pesto is too thick, add a bit more olive oil and continue blending until you achieve the desired texture.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You may add more lemon juice, salt, or Parmesan to suit your taste.
7. Transfer the pesto to a jar or bowl and serve immediately, or store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.