Mint Pesto – A Refreshing Twist on Classic Sauces
Category: Sauces and Dressings
Serves: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Mint pesto offers a refreshing and vibrant variation to the classic basil pesto. Perfect for dressing up pasta, drizzling over grilled vegetables, or serving as a dip, this pesto’s fresh flavor is sure to awaken your taste buds. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can prepare this delightful sauce in no time.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Mint Leaves | 10g |
| Pine Nuts (Pine Seeds) | 40g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 50ml |
| Fine Salt | to taste |
| Freshly Ground Black Pepper | to taste |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Mint:
Begin by gently plucking the mint leaves from the stems. Wash them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Once cleaned, pat the mint leaves dry using a clean paper towel or kitchen cloth. -
Blend the Ingredients:
In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh mint leaves with the pine nuts, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Pulse the mixture for a couple of minutes until finely chopped and well combined. -
Add Olive Oil:
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while continuing to blend the mixture. This will help emulsify the pesto and create a smooth, creamy texture. You may need to stop the machine occasionally to scrape down the sides to ensure everything is incorporated. -
Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if necessary. -
Store or Serve:
Transfer the mint pesto to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. It can be kept fresh for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions:
- Toss with your favorite pasta for a fresh, herbaceous dish.
- Use as a sauce for grilled vegetables or meats.
- Spread on toasted bread for a quick and tasty appetizer.
- Serve as a dip for fresh vegetables or crackers.
This mint pesto is a versatile, aromatic sauce that can be easily made ahead of time and will complement a variety of dishes. With its refreshing taste and vibrant green color, it’s the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!
