| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 5 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 265 | 24g | 5g | 6g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 2g | 6g | 0.65g |
I’d love to share a recipe that’s become a staple in my Latin-Caribbean-Spanish fusion kitchen—a flavorful, nutrient-packed Moringa Pesto Sauce. This vibrant condiment offers a delightful twist on a traditional Italian classic, taking it on a journey across the globe to the sunny, tropical shores of my Cuban heritage. Not only is it a splash of tropical comfort on a plate, but also a powerhouse of nutrition, largely thanks to one incredible ingredient: moringa leaves.
A Twist on Tradition
Originating from my Cuban and Spanish roots, this Moringa Pesto Sauce blends the rich, nutty flavors of pine nuts and the pungent, savory punch of garlic with the distinct, herb-like taste of fresh moringa leaves— a staple in many Caribbean diets. The result— an agile and versatile recipe that lends itself well to such Spanish favorites as tapas, pasta dishes, or used as a dip for warm crusty bread.
Unveiling the Health Beneficts
But fill your senses with its enticing aroma, and you’ll begin to understand just why this recipe is close to my heart. Moringa— a plant native to India, but now widely grown across the tropics— is known as a ‘miracle tree’ in many cultures. Every part of the plant is edible, and it is rich in fiber, minerals, and essential amino acids. The incorporated lemon juice, a great source of vitamin C, combines with the polyphenols in the extra-virgin olive oil, creating an essential nutrient synergy where the body can better absorb all of the sauce’s good-for-you elements.
Moringa Magic in Your Kitchen
The versatility of Moringa Pesto Sauce truly adds to its allure. Marinate chicken, toss it into hot pasta or spread it on crusty Spanish bread where the oil seeps into the cracks and crevices— each bite infused with Caribbean nuances and Spanish charisma. The brightness of the lemon and the earthiness of the moringa dance seamlessly between the warmth of the parmesan cheese, and the rustic charm of garlic and pine nuts.
So next time you’re yearning for a retreat to the tropics, skip the plane ticket, put on your favourite tunes— perhaps a little salsa or rumba— and whip up a batch of this Moringa Pesto Sauce. Your tastebuds will thank you for the culinary journey. As a dance teacher, I assure you that your kitchen will transform into a flavorful dance floor of epicurean delight.
And above all, enjoy it! Good food, like good dancing, should always come from the heart.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups fresh moringa leaves, packed
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
Method
Step One
Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need fresh moringa leaves, garlic, pine nuts, freshly grated parmesan cheese, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, freshly ground black pepper, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest and fresh basil leaves.
Step Two
Rinse your fresh moringa and basil leaves under running water and pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel. Ensure the leaves are completely dry to avoid making a soggy pesto.
Step Three
In a food processor or blender, combine the moringa leaves, basil leaves, garlic cloves, and pine nuts. Process until they form a rough paste.
Step Four
Add the freshly grated parmesan cheese to the food processor or blender. Continue to process, while gradually adding olive oil until the pesto becomes smooth and creamy.
Step Five
Season your moringa pesto with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. After seasoning, add in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Pulse the mixture a few more times to ensure the new ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
Step Six
At this point, your moringa pesto sauce is ready. You can use it right away, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about a week. Enjoy it over pasta, salads, or as a dipping sauce for bread.
