Spinach and macadamia pesto
Delight your taste buds with a vibrant Spinach and Macadamia Pesto! Made with fresh spinach, creamy macadamia nuts, garlic, olive oil, and grated parmesan cheese, this easy, 5-ingredient recipe is perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a zesty dip. Enjoy a nutty twist on a classic favorite in just minutes!
- 07 Mar 2025
- Cook time 0 min
- Prep time 10 min
- 10 Servings
- 5 Ingredients
Spinach and macadamia pesto is a fresh and nutritious twist on the traditional pesto recipe. This delightful combination pairs the earthy flavors of spinach with the creamy texture of macadamia nuts to create a versatile sauce that can be used with pasta, as a spread, or as a dip. This recipe is simple to make and perfect for adding a touch of gourmet to your everyday meals.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- Rinse the spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or sand. Pat it dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner to get rid of excess moisture.
- Peel the garlic cloves.
- If you prefer extra flavor, lightly toast the macadamia nuts. Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently and cook for about 5 minutes or until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Allow the nuts to cool slightly before using.
- In a food processor or blender, combine the spinach, macadamia nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse a few times to chop the ingredients slightly.
- While the food processor or blender is running, gradually pour in the olive oil. Continue to process until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture. Pulse a few more times to combine everything thoroughly. If the pesto is too thick, you can add a bit more olive oil or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You can add salt and pepper to taste if desired.
- Your spinach and macadamia pesto is ready to be used! Transfer the pesto to an airtight container if you are not using it immediately. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. To preserve the vibrant green color, pour a thin layer of olive oil on top of the pesto before sealing the container.
Tips:
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and nutritional value. Baby spinach works particularly well.
- Toast the macadamia nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until golden brown to enhance their flavor before adding them to the pesto.
- Start by adding half the olive oil and then gradually add more until you reach your desired consistency.
- For a vegan version, substitute the parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.
- Store any leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
With its vibrant green color and rich, nutty flavor, this spinach and macadamia pesto is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. It's a versatile sauce that can elevate a variety of dishes with its fresh and hearty taste. Enjoy this healthy and delicious pesto with your favorite pasta, spread it on sandwiches, or use it as a dip for veggies. Happy cooking!
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 24 grams |
| Energy | |
| Calories 50kcal | 2% |
| Protein | |
| Protein 1.34g | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | |
| Carbohydrates 1.25g | 0% |
| Fiber 0.48g | 1% |
| Sugar 0.23g | 0% |
| Fat | |
| Fat 16g | 19% |
| Saturated 2.68g | 9% |
| Cholesterol 2.30mg | - |
| Vitamins | |
| Vitamin A 20ug | 2% |
| Choline 3.59mg | 1% |
| Vitamin B1 0.04mg | 3% |
| Vitamin B2 0.02mg | 2% |
| Vitamin B3 0.14mg | 1% |
| Vitamin B6 0.04mg | 2% |
| Vitamin B9 6ug | 1% |
| Vitamin B12 0.04ug | 1% |
| Vitamin C 1.46mg | 2% |
| Vitamin E 0.13mg | 1% |
| Vitamin K 22ug | 18% |
| Minerals | |
| Calcium, Ca 30mg | 2% |
| Copper, Cu 0.03mg | 4% |
| Iron, Fe 0.20mg | 2% |
| Magnesium, Mg 11mg | 3% |
| Phosphorus, P 30mg | 2% |
| Potassium, K 45mg | 1% |
| Selenium, Se 1.56ug | 3% |
| Sodium, Na 70mg | 5% |
| Zinc, Zn 0.20mg | 2% |
| Water | |
| Water 5g | - |
| * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. | |
More recipes
Walnut parsley pesto with parmesan cheese
Ready in minutes, it's an easy and nutritious way to elevate your meals.
25 May 2025Penne with black beans and spinach in a tomato sauce
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this pasta dish will become a family favorite.
29 May 2025Parmesan gelato on red-wine toast with balsamic glaze
Perfect for special occasions or an elegant dinner party.
21 May 2025Chilli shrimp pasta
Ready in under 30 minutes, it's a perfect blend of heat and flavor for a delicious meal.
07 Mar 2025Spaghetti with asparagus and spinach pesto
Savor the bright, refreshing taste with every bite.
25 May 2025Parsley pesto garlic breads
Perfect for any occasion, our easy-to-follow recipe will leave you craving more.
05 May 2025Tomato and roasted capsicum pesto
Enjoy a healthy twist on traditional pesto without the nuts and seeds.
23 Mar 2025