Low Sodium Classic Green Pesto
Transform your favorite dishes with this vibrant and flavorful Low Sodium Classic Green Pesto! Bursting with the fresh, herbaceous taste of basil, this heart-healthy twist on traditional pesto is perfect for those looking to reduce their salt intake without sacrificing flavor. Toasted pine nuts bring a nutty richness, while tangy lemon juice and freshly ground black pepper create a perfectly balanced profile. Grated Parmesan adds depth, all brought together with a silky drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Ready in just 10 minutes and requiring no cooking, this quick and easy pesto is perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or using as a dip. It’s a versatile, low sodium delight everyone will love!
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Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 0.25 cup Pine nuts
- 2 Garlic cloves
- 0.5 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper, freshly ground
- 2 tbsp Water
Directions
Step 1
Begin by washing the fresh basil leaves under cold water to ensure any dirt or impurities are removed.
Step 2
Gently pat the basil leaves dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth to remove excess water.
Step 3
Place the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes until they are lightly golden brown and fragrant. Be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.
Step 4
Peel the garlic cloves and place them into a food processor.
Step 5
Add the toasted pine nuts, dried basil leaves, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese into the food processor along with the garlic.
Step 6
Pulse the mixture in the food processor several times to break down the ingredients into a coarse paste.
Step 7
Slowly drizzle the extra virgin olive oil into the food processor while running it on low speed until the ingredients are smoothly blended. Stop to scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even consistency.
Step 8
Add the freshly ground black pepper and 2 tablespoons of water to adjust the consistency to your liking, and pulse briefly to incorporate.
Step 9
Taste the pesto and adjust the lemon juice or pepper if needed, based on your preference.
Step 10
Transfer the low sodium pesto into a glass jar or an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (256.9g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1294.0 |
| Total Fat 141.4g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 21.7g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 11.5g | |
| Cholesterol 20mg | 0% |
| Sodium 342.7mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 9.1g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 2.9g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 1.6g | |
| Protein 14.4g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 292.1mg | 0% |
| Iron 3.4mg | 0% |
| Potassium 375.8mg | 0% |
Source of Calories