Dandelion Pesto Garlic Pine Nuts (Printable Version)

Fresh dandelion greens combined with garlic, pine nuts, and cheese for a vibrant sauce.

# What You Need:

→ Greens & Herbs

01 - 2 cups fresh dandelion greens, loosely packed, washed and trimmed
02 - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, optional for milder flavor

→ Nuts & Cheese

03 - 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
04 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

→ Aromatics

05 - 2 large garlic cloves, peeled

→ Liquids

06 - 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
07 - Juice of 1/2 lemon

→ Seasoning

08 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
09 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# How-To Steps:

01 - Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and add pine nuts. Toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a plate and allow to cool slightly before use.
02 - Add dandelion greens, basil if using, garlic cloves, toasted pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese to a food processor. Pulse several times until the mixture is finely chopped.
03 - Turn the food processor to running speed. Gradually stream in the olive oil and lemon juice in a slow, steady manner. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency, pausing to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
04 - Add salt and pepper to the pesto. Pulse to combine thoroughly, then taste and adjust seasoning or lemon juice to preference.
05 - Transfer the finished pesto to a jar or serving bowl. Use immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to one week.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses fresh dandelion greens for a unique, slightly bitter flavor that's beautifully balanced.
  • Quick preparation with no cooking time required.
  • Versatile pesto that works as a sauce, spread, or dip.
  • Vegetarian and gluten-free, fitting a variety of dietary preferences.
02 -
  • Toast pine nuts carefully to avoid burning, as burnt nuts will affect flavor negatively.
  • Pulse ingredients until finely chopped but not completely pureed for a pleasant texture.
  • Adjust lemon juice and seasoning at the end to maintain bright and balanced flavors.
  • Store pesto in a jar with a thin layer of olive oil on top to help preserve freshness.
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