Toasted Pecan Pesto

Elevate your culinary creations with this indulgent Toasted Pecan Pesto recipe, a flavorful twist on a classic favorite! This pesto swaps traditional pine nuts for rich, buttery toasted pecans, creating a nutty depth that perfectly complements the vibrant freshness of basil. Blended with Parmesan cheese, garlic, a hint of fresh lemon juice, and silky extra-virgin olive oil, this creamy sauce delivers irresistible flavor with every bite. Ready in just 15 minutes, this quick and easy pesto is perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, drizzling over roasted veggies, or serving as a dip. Plus, it's make-ahead friendly—store it in the fridge or freezer for a burst of homemade goodness anytime. Versatile, delicious, and packed with simple, wholesome ingredients, this Toasted Pecan Pesto is a must-have for your recipe collection!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:5 mins

Total Time:15 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1 cup Pecans
• 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 Garlic cloves
• 0.5 cup Extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
• 0.25 teaspoons Salt
• 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Preheat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and toast them for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from the skillet and let them cool.

Step 2

In a food processor, combine the toasted pecans, fresh basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3

Pulse the food processor a few times to chop the ingredients and begin combining them.

Step 4

With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture reaches your desired consistency. Stop to scrape down the sides as needed.

Step 5

Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if necessary.

Step 6

Transfer the Toasted Pecan Pesto to a jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	220.1 grams (220.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	917

Total Fat 86.70g	111%
Saturated Fat 15.10g	76%
Polyunsaturated Fat 21.60g
Cholesterol 45mg	15%
Sodium 913mg	40%
Total Carbohydrate 21.40g	8%
Dietary Fiber 11.30g	40%
Total Sugars 4.70g
Protein 27.10g	54%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 582mg	45%
Iron 4mg	23%
Potassium 600mg	13%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 80.1%

Protein: 11.1%

Carbs: 8.8%