Rocket and almond pesto

Whip up a zesty Rocket and Almond Pesto that's perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a vibrant dip! Made with 5 cups of peppery arugula, 1/2 cup of nutritious spinach, crunchy almonds, fresh garlic, rich olive oil, and creamy parmesan cheese, this flavorful blend will elevate any dish. Ready in minutes, this easy-to-follow recipe brings a fresh, gourmet twist to your everyday meals.

  • 05 Mar 2025
  • Cook time 0 min
  • Prep time 10 min
  • 8 Servings
  • 6 Ingredients

Rocket and almond pesto

Rocket and almond pesto is a delightful and versatile sauce that can enhance a variety of dishes, from pastas to sandwiches. This vibrant twist on classic pesto uses peppery arugula and nutrient-rich spinach, combined with the nutty flavor of almonds for a delicious and healthy alternative.

Ingredients:

5 cups arugula
100g
1/2 cup spinach
16g
1/3 cup almonds
40g
2 garlic cloves
6g
1/2 cup olive oil
120g
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
27g

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the arugula and spinach.
- Peel the garlic cloves.
2. Toast the Almonds (optional but recommended):
- In a small dry skillet over medium heat, toast the almonds for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Blend the Greens and Almonds:
- In a food processor, combine the arugula, spinach, cooled almonds, and garlic cloves.
- Pulse a few times to chop and mix the greens and nuts.
4. Add Olive Oil:
- While the food processor is running, slowly pour in the olive oil. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times to ensure everything is well incorporated.
5. Incorporate Parmesan Cheese:
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture in the food processor.
- Pulse a few more times until the cheese is fully mixed in and the pesto is smooth.
6. Adjust Seasoning (optional):
- Taste the pesto and add salt and pepper if desired. Blend again to mix.
7. Store or Use Immediately:
- Transfer the pesto to a jar or an airtight container. If not using immediately, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top to preserve freshness.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to a week. The pesto can also be frozen for longer storage.

Tips:

- Roast almonds: Roast the almonds in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until they are golden brown. This enhances their flavor and gives the pesto a richer taste.

- Use fresh ingredients: To ensure the best flavor, use fresh arugula, spinach, and garlic. Avoid using wilted greens or pre-minced garlic.

- Blend in stages: Start by blending the garlic and nuts first to break them down, then gradually add the greens, and finally the olive oil and cheese. This ensures a smooth and well-incorporated pesto.

- Adjust consistency: If the pesto is too thick, add more olive oil or a splash of water to achieve your desired consistency. If it's too thin, add more greens or nuts.

- Taste and season: After blending, taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

- Store properly: Store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To prevent it from turning brown, pour a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing.

Rocket and almond pesto is a fresh and flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire. With its simple preparation and versatile use, it can elevate any dish to new heights. Remember to use high-quality, fresh ingredients and to adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Store any leftovers properly, and you'll have a delicious condiment ready to go for your meals throughout the week.

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size40 grams
Energy
Calories 45kcal2%
Protein
Protein 2.45g2%
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates 2.19g1%
Fiber 0.87g2%
Sugar 0.49g0%
Fat
Fat 18g22%
Saturated 2.81g9%
Cholesterol 2.87mg-
Vitamins
Vitamin A 27ug3%
Choline 5mg1%
Vitamin B1 0.02mg2%
Vitamin B2 0.08mg6%
Vitamin B3 0.23mg1%
Vitamin B6 0.03mg2%
Vitamin B9 16ug4%
Vitamin B12 0.04ug2%
Vitamin C 2.52mg3%
Vitamin E 1.38mg9%
Vitamin K 22ug19%
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 63mg5%
Copper, Cu 0.07mg7%
Iron, Fe 0.41mg4%
Magnesium, Mg 22mg5%
Phosphorus, P 55mg4%
Potassium, K 100mg3%
Selenium, Se 1.47ug3%
Sodium, Na 66mg4%
Zinc, Zn 0.37mg3%
Water
Water 15g-
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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