| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 180 | 18g | 3g | 3g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 1g | 4g | 0.3g |
There’s something truly special about Caraway Leaves Pesto. Growing up in a Boston household with a keen eye for authentic ingredients, I always knew how to appreciate the simple yet vibrant flavors that nature offers. Caraway might be a lesser-known ingredient in mainstream kitchens, but trust me, it’s a game-changer in this delightful pesto recipe.
A Blend of Tradition and Health
For me, cooking isn’t just about making delicious food—it’s about creating something that not only delights the palate but also nourishes the body. Caraway Leaves Pesto is a perfect example of this balance. Packed with fresh greens like basil and spinach, this recipe is a powerhouse of nutrients. You get loads of vitamins A and K, while the caraway leaves add a unique flair that makes this pesto different from the usual basil or arugula varieties.
Caraway leaves are known to have numerous health benefits, including aiding digestion and providing a rich source of antioxidants. Adding pine nuts and garlic not only boosts the flavor profile but also offers heart-healthy fats and anti-inflammatory properties. And let’s not forget the extra virgin olive oil—an excellent source of monounsaturated fats that are great for cardiovascular health.
Perfect Pairings
While this Caraway Leaves Pesto stands brilliantly on its own, it’s also a versatile addition to many dishes. Toss it with your favorite pasta, use it as a spread on sandwiches, or even drizzle it over grilled vegetables. It pairs wonderfully with New England seafood—think grilled scallops or shrimp. You might also enjoy it as a fresh, green topping on a traditional Irish boxty, seamlessly bringing together my culinary heritage.
For those interested in similar dishes, consider trying out other pesto recipes like arugula pesto or kale pesto, which offer different flavor profiles but similar nutritional benefits. They can add a delightful twist to your meals without overshadowing the main ingredients.
Crafting this Caraway Leaves Pesto feels like a homage to both the cherished family recipes I grew up with and the innovative flavors I continue to discover. Plus, it’s something Laura and I love serving at family gatherings, knowing it’s something our little boy will hopefully come to cherish as well.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups fresh caraway leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Method
Step One
In a food processor, combine the fresh caraway leaves, fresh basil leaves, fresh spinach leaves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves.
Step Two
Pulse the ingredients until they are roughly chopped and well combined.
Step Three
While the food processor is running, slowly pour in the extra virgin olive oil. Continue to process until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Step Four
Add the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to the food processor. Pulse a few more times to incorporate these ingredients properly.
Step Five
Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.
Step Six
Transfer the Caraway Leaves Pesto to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. Enjoy your pesto with pasta, as a spread, or as a dip!
