Artichoke Pesto
Creamy, zesty, and packed with flavor, this Artichoke Pesto is perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or your next appetizer board.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) can or jar artichoke hearts drained and patted dry
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 1/3 cup toasted pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget option)
- 2 cloves garlic
- zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (or parsley for a milder flavor)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/3-1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 tbsp capers for a briny kick
- 1-2 tbsp Greek yogurt or ricotta for a creamier texture
- crushed red pepper flakes to taste
Instructions
- If you haven’t already, lightly toast the pine nuts or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let them cool slightly.1/3 cup toasted pine nuts
- In a food processor, add artichoke hearts, Parmesan, nuts, garlic, lemon zest and juice, basil, salt, and pepper. Pulse until chopped and combined.1 (14 oz) can or jar artichoke hearts, 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, 2 cloves garlic, zest of 1 lemon, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- With the motor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency—smooth and spreadable or slightly chunky.1/3-1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Add more lemon juice, salt, or oil as needed. Stir in any optional add-ins.1 tbsp capers, 1-2 tbsp Greek yogurt or ricotta, crushed red pepper flakes
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
- Toast nuts gently to avoid burning and bitterness.
- Pesto thickens as it chills; add a splash of olive oil to loosen if needed.
- Great as a sauce, spread, or dip—get creative!
- Freeze leftovers in small portions for easy future use.
Nutrition
Serving: 6servings | Calories: 195kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 378mg | Potassium: 74mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 130IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 1mg