Are you ready to elevate your culinary game with a burst of fresh flavors? This Oil Free Arugula Pesto is not just a vegan delight; it's a vibrant green sauce that will transform your meals in just 15 minutes! Packed with the peppery goodness of arugula, the richness of walnuts, and a zesty kick from lemon juice, this pesto is the perfect companion for pasta, sandwiches, or even as a dip. Say goodbye to store-bought sauces and hello to a homemade gem that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Dive into this simple recipe and discover how easy it is to create a fresh, oil-free pesto that will leave your taste buds dancing!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh arugula
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water as needed for blending
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the fresh arugula leaves under cool running water, ensuring all dirt and debris are removed. Pat dry completely using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will enhance their nutty flavor and release their natural oils. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Peel the garlic cloves and roughly chop them to help distribute flavor more evenly during blending.
- Add the arugula, toasted walnuts, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to a food processor or high-powered blender.
- Begin blending the ingredients, stopping periodically to scrape down the sides of the container. If the mixture appears too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Continue processing until the pesto reaches a desired texture - typically 1-2 minutes for a slightly chunky pesto or 3-4 minutes for an ultra-smooth sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to balance the flavors.
- Transfer the pesto to an airtight container and refrigerate. The pesto will keep fresh for 5-7 days when stored properly.
Tips
- Freshness is Key: Use the freshest arugula you can find for the best flavor. Look for vibrant green leaves without any wilting or browning.
- Toast Those Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts not only enhances their flavor but also adds depth to your pesto. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to experiment with the amount of garlic and lemon juice according to your preference. If you love a garlicky punch, add an extra clove!
- Consistency Matters: If you prefer a creamier pesto, add a bit more water while blending until you reach your desired consistency. Just remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
- Storage Tips: To keep your pesto fresh, store it in an airtight container. A thin layer of water on top can help prevent oxidation and keep the vibrant green color.
- Versatile Uses: Don’t limit yourself! This pesto can be used in various dishes, from drizzling over roasted vegetables to spreading on toast or mixing into salads.
- Make It Ahead: This pesto can last in the fridge for up to a week, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
