When it comes to green pesto, the possibilities are endless! This vibrant sauce can elevate simple dishes into culinary masterpieces. Let’s think beyond the traditional pasta. You can drizzle it over roasted vegetables to enhance their natural sweetness. It works wonders on grilled chicken or fish, adding a burst of freshness that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Toss it into salads for a quick flavor boost. And if you’re feeling generous, spread it on toasted bread or sandwiches—an instant flavor bomb. With a little creativity, you can pair this Jamie Oliver green pesto with nearly anything.
A warm summer day, the sun is shining, and the scent of fresh herbs wafts through the air. You’re in your kitchen, deciding what to whip up for dinner, when you remember the vibrant green pesto recipe you stumbled upon.
It’s from Jamie Oliver, a chef known for accessible yet delicious recipes. If you are like me, you appreciate cooking that doesn’t require formal training, just a good attitude and some quality ingredients.
Let me take you on a journey into the world of Jamie Oliver’s green pesto. This is not just a sauce; it’s what I call a flavor powerhouse waiting to transform your meals from ordinary to extraordinary. Get ready to dive into this delightful dish, understand its ingredients, discover how to make it, and more. Trust me, once you taste this pesto, you will want to have it on hand at all times.
What is Jamie Oliver Green Pesto?
Jamie Oliver green pesto is a fresh, zesty sauce made from basil and other high-quality ingredients. Originating from Liguria, Italy, pesto has become a beloved addition to dishes around the globe. Jamie’s version stays true to its roots but introduces a few tweaks for ease and modern palates.
Typically, green pesto contains fresh basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and nuts—often pine nuts. This blending results in a creamy, herbaceous sauce with a nutty undertone. The beauty of this pesto is in its simplicity; you don’t need fancy kitchen gadgets. A mortar and pestle will work, but a food processor or blender makes the job faster.
Why You’ll Love Jamie Oliver Green Pesto
If you’ve never had green pesto, let me enlighten you. Why do I love this particular version? First, it’s packed with flavor. The fresh basil provides a refreshing herbal taste, while the cheese adds richness. And that punch of garlic? Oh, it’s like a love letter to umami.
Moreover, it’s incredibly versatile. You can use it as a sauce, a dip, or even a dressing. The options are limitless. My personal favorite is to toss it with warm pasta for a quick meal or mix it into my favorite grain salad.
Additionally, Jamie’s pesto is easy to make. Just a handful of ingredients come together in minutes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up excess herbs from your garden or fridge. Time and again, I’ve found myself turning to this recipe when I need something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
What’s more? You can customize it. Don’t like pine nuts? Swap them out. Looking for a dairy-free option? Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese. There’s room for creativity here, and every variation brings something unique to the table.
The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Jamie Oliver Green Pesto
Let’s gather the treasures we need to create this delightful green pesto. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 large bunch of fresh basil leaves: The star of the show. Ensure it’s fresh for the best flavor.
- 1 generous handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese: This brings creaminess and a savory note.
- 1 handful of toasted pine nuts (optional): Adds a nutty depth. Feel free to replace it with walnuts or skip if you prefer.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Essential for blending; add as needed for the desired consistency.
- ½ clove garlic, finely minced: Just enough to offer a kick without overpowering the basil.
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional): For a refreshing brightness that dances on the palate.
- 1 tablespoon Pecorino Romano cheese (optional): For those who enjoy a sharper flavor contrast.
These simple ingredients create something magical when combined!
Directions to Make Jamie Oliver Green Pesto
Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of making this pesto.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by rinsing the basil leaves thoroughly under cool running water. Shake off the excess moisture. If you’re using eggs in your cooking, just like the egg in late breakfast, use the basil fresh. It makes a substantial difference.
Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts (if using)
Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and let them toast for a few minutes, gently stirring until they’re golden brown. Watch them closely; they can go from perfect to burnt in seconds!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Food Processor
Place the basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, minced garlic, and lemon zest into the food processor. Give it a quick pulse to mix everything.
Step 4: Blend in Olive Oil
While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in extra virgin olive oil. You want to achieve a smooth consistency, so check your pesto as you go, adjusting the oil to your desired thickness. It’s all about that creamy texture!
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Stop the processor and taste your creation. Adjust with additional salt, cheese, or lemon juice as needed. This is your pesto—make it your own!
Step 6: Store or Serve
If you aren’t using your pesto immediately, store it in an airtight container. Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing to prevent browning.
Notes: Tips for Making the Perfect Pesto
Here are my five tips to ensure you nail this pesto every time:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and quality olive oil make a huge difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overprocess: You want a bit of texture. It should not be a completely smooth paste.
- Chill the Ingredients: If you chill your basil and nuts before blending, your pesto will taste fresher and more vibrant.
- Experiment with Greens: While basil is classic, consider spinach, arugula, or even kale for variations.
- Customization is Key: If you find your pesto too strong, mix in a little Greek yogurt for a creamy twist or adjust the garlic to your taste.
Storage Tips
Pesto can be stored for up to a week in the fridge. Just remember, it might darken in color. To keep it looking fresh, cover it with a thin layer of olive oil.
Alternatively, you can freeze pesto in an ice cube tray. Once frozen, pop them into a zip-top bag. Now you have flavorful cubes ready whenever you need them!
Nutrition Information
Just to give you a quick rundown, here’s a rough estimate of the nutrition breakdown per serving (1 tablespoon):
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
These figures can fluctuate based on the specific ingredients and quantities used, but they offer a good foundation for your dietary planning.
Serving Suggestions
Now, let’s explore how to showcase your fabulous green pesto:
- Pasta Toss: A classic choice—Cook any pasta you like, drain it, and toss it with pesto for a quick dinner solution.
- Pasta Salad Add-In: A summer delight—Combine your pesto with cold pasta, chickpeas, and veggies for a refreshing pasta salad.
- Sandwich Spread: Transform your sandwiches—Spread pesto on bread, layering with turkey, tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella for a gourmet touch.
- Drizzle on Meat: Elevate your grilled chicken—Brush pesto over your chicken breasts while grilling for aromatic flavor.
- Pizza Topper: Why not?—Spread pesto over pizza dough before adding your toppings for an herbaceous boost!
What Other Substitute Can I Use in Jamie Oliver Green Pesto?
If you’re missing any ingredients or want to tweak things a bit, consider these substitutes:
- Spinach: Use it in place of basil for a milder flavor. It won’t have the same zing, but it’s still yummy and offers great nutrition.
- Walnuts: Swap out pine nuts for walnuts for a different nutty flavor with a lower price tag.
- Nutritional Yeast: If dairy-free, this can substitute cheese and provide a cheesy flavor without any dairy.
- Pumpkin seeds: These can replace nuts altogether for a different texture and flavor. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients!
- Olive oil alternatives: Avocado oil can step in for a lighter flavor. Use it as needed in your pesto blend.
Jamie Oliver Green Pesto Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by rinsing the basil leaves thoroughly under cool running water. Shake off the excess moisture. If you’re using eggs in your cooking, just like the egg in late breakfast, use the basil fresh. It makes a substantial difference.
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and let them toast for a few minutes, gently stirring until they’re golden brown. Watch them closely; they can go from perfect to burnt in seconds!
- Place the basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, minced garlic, and lemon zest into the food processor. Give it a quick pulse to mix everything.
- While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in extra virgin olive oil. You want to achieve a smooth consistency, so check your pesto as you go, adjusting the oil to your desired thickness. It’s all about that creamy texture!
- Stop the processor and taste your creation. Adjust with additional salt, cheese, or lemon juice as needed. This is your pesto—make it your own!
- If you aren’t using your pesto immediately, store it in an airtight container. Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing to prevent browning.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and quality olive oil make a huge difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overprocess: You want a bit of texture. It should not be a completely smooth paste.
- Chill the Ingredients: If you chill your basil and nuts before blending, your pesto will taste fresher and more vibrant.
- Experiment with Greens: While basil is classic, consider spinach, arugula, or even kale for variations.
- Customization is Key: If you find your pesto too strong, mix in a little Greek yogurt for a creamy twist or adjust the garlic to your taste.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
In the kitchen, few things are as satisfying as crafting something from scratch, especially when it’s as flavorful as Jamie Oliver’s green pesto. This dish can transform your meals with minimal effort required. You’ve seen how versatile it can be, pairing wonderfully with various ingredients and dishes.
I encourage you to try it out yourself. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice, this green pesto is a perfect recipe to add to your collection. So, roll up those sleeves, blend up some basil, and let the cooking begin. Happy eating!