Dandelion Pesto with Garlic (Printable)

Vibrant sauce featuring dandelion greens, garlic, pine nuts, and cheese, ideal for pastas, sandwiches, or dips.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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 or pecorino Romano

→ 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 Make:

01 - Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Allow to cool slightly before proceeding.
02 - In a food processor, combine dandelion greens, basil if using, garlic cloves, toasted pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse several times until the mixture reaches a finely chopped consistency.
03 - With the food processor running, gradually stream in the extra-virgin olive oil and lemon juice. Blend until smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
04 - Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Pulse to combine thoroughly, then taste and adjust seasoning or lemon juice to preference.
05 - Transfer pesto to a jar or serving bowl. Use immediately or store covered in the refrigerator for up to one week.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • Uses fresh dandelion greens, a nutritious and unique ingredient.
  • Quick to prepare with no cooking involved, just blending and toasting.
  • Versatile condiment perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip.
  • Vegetarian and gluten-free, easily adaptable for vegan diets.
  • Bright, zesty flavor from lemon juice balances the slight bitterness.
02 -
  • Toast pine nuts carefully to avoid burning and bitterness.
  • Use fresh, young dandelion greens for the best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust lemon juice to balance the bitterness of the greens.
  • Store pesto with a thin layer of olive oil on top to keep it fresh longer.
  • Experiment with substituting nuts or skipping cheese for dietary needs.
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