Arugula Pesto Recipe

Tired of the same old basil pesto? This vibrant arugula pesto offers a peppery, nutty alternative that's perfect for pasta, pizza, sandwiches, or as a dip for crusty bread. Experience a burst of fresh, zesty flavor that will elevate any dish!

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 5 mins
Calories 270.8 kcal
Protein 8g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Arugula Pesto

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Arugula Pesto

  • 2 cups packed arugula
  • Fresh Parsley
  • Fresh Spinach
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • Garlic Cloves
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Parmesan Cheese

How to Make Arugula Pesto

  1. Combine 2 cups packed arugula, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 2 cloves garlic, and a pinch of salt in a food processor.
  2. Pulse until finely chopped, then with the motor running, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil until a smooth paste forms.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your liking.
  4. Transfer the pesto to an airtight container. Pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top of the pesto to prevent browning and maintain freshness.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For best flavor, warm gently before serving.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

3 g

Sugar

3g

Fat

20g

Carbs

1g