Forget the usual basil pesto! This vibrant and surprisingly delicious carrot top pesto with walnuts offers a unique flavor profile and a fantastic way to reduce food waste. Carrot tops, often discarded, are packed with nutrients and possess a subtly sweet, peppery flavor that complements walnuts beautifully. This recipe provides a delicious and sustainable alternative to traditional pesto, perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip.
What are the benefits of using carrot tops?
Carrot tops are often overlooked, but they're a nutritional powerhouse! They're rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and fiber. Using them in pesto is a fantastic way to minimize food waste and add nutritional value to your meal. Don't let those leafy greens go to waste – they're packed with flavor and goodness!
Is carrot top pesto healthy?
Absolutely! Carrot top pesto boasts a significant nutritional advantage over traditional basil pesto. The carrot tops contribute vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while the walnuts add healthy fats and protein. This makes it a nutritious and flavorful addition to your diet.
How do you make carrot top pesto without a food processor?
While a food processor makes the process significantly easier and faster, you can absolutely make carrot top pesto without one! Finely chop the carrot tops and walnuts using a sharp knife. Then, use a mortar and pestle to grind the ingredients together, gradually adding the olive oil and Parmesan cheese until you reach your desired consistency. This method requires more effort but provides a rewarding result.
What can you use carrot top pesto on?
The possibilities are endless! This vibrant pesto is perfect for:
- Pasta: Toss it with your favorite pasta for a vibrant and flavorful meal.
- Sandwiches: Spread it on sandwiches for a delicious and healthy twist.
- Dips: Serve it as a dip with vegetables, crackers, or bread.
- Pizza: Use it as a unique pizza sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle it over roasted vegetables for an extra layer of flavor.
How long does carrot top pesto last?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, carrot top pesto should last for about 3-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in ice cube trays or small containers for up to 3 months.
Recipe: Carrot Top Pesto with Walnuts
This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of pesto.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups packed carrot greens, thoroughly washed and dried
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a food processor and pulse until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Adjust the consistency by adding more olive oil if needed.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
This vibrant and flavorful carrot top pesto with walnuts is a testament to the culinary potential of often-discarded ingredients. Try it today and discover a new favorite pesto recipe! Enjoy!
