Spinach Basil Pesto – Easy and Delicious Homemade Recipe

After a long day, there’s nothing quite like whipping up a versatile sauce that transforms simple ingredients into something spectacular. That’s exactly what this Spinach Basil Pesto recipe offers. The vibrant green sauce carries the perfect balance of fresh herbs, nutty richness, and savory depth that will elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary.

When you first blend this Spinach Basil Pesto, your kitchen fills with an intoxicating aroma – the peppery basil, fresh spinach, and fragrant garlic create a symphony of scents that promise incredible flavor. The texture is silky yet substantial, with tiny bits of nuts adding delightful crunch to the velvety base. One taste reveals layers of flavor: herbal brightness from the greens, richness from the olive oil, savory notes from the cheese, and a subtle citrus lift from fresh lemon.

This easy homemade Spinach Basil Pesto recipe stands out because it combines traditional elements with approachable ingredients you likely have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a quick pasta sauce, a sandwich spread, or a flavor boost for roasted vegetables, this versatile pesto delivers remarkable results with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Spinach Basil Pesto

• ✅ This homemade Spinach Basil Pesto sauce comes together in just 10 minutes with simple ingredients
• ✅ Perfect easy Spinach Basil Pesto for pasta nights when you need a quick, flavorful meal
• ✅ Versatile Spinach Basil Pesto with nuts that can be customized based on what you have in your pantry
• ✅ Fresh Spinach Basil Pesto for sandwiches that elevates even the simplest lunch
• ✅ Nutrient-dense recipe with spinach adding extra vitamins compared to traditional pesto
• ✅ Freezer-friendly sauce that helps you reduce food waste and meal prep efficiently

Ingredients for Spinach Basil Pesto

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this vibrant sauce:

• 1 ½ cups baby spinach leaves (fresh and thoroughly dried)
• ¾ cup fresh basil leaves (stems removed)
• ½ cup toasted pine nuts (walnuts or almonds work great as budget-friendly alternatives)
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• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided (use the best quality you can afford)
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled and quartered
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Greens: The spinach-basil ratio can be adjusted based on your preference. For a more traditional flavor, increase the basil; for a milder taste, use more spinach.
• Nuts: While pine nuts provide authentic flavor for this Spinach Basil Pesto with nuts, they can be pricey. Walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds work wonderfully for gluten-free Spinach Basil Pesto options.
• Cheese: Traditional Parmesan adds savory depth, but for dairy-free or vegan Spinach Basil Pesto ideas, substitute with nutritional yeast or a plant-based Parmesan alternative.
• Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil creates the best flavor foundation, but you can experiment with part avocado oil for a different twist.

How to Make Spinach Basil Pesto – Step by Step

Step 1: Toast the nuts

Place pine nuts (or your chosen nuts) in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning and let cool for a few minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the base

In a food processor or blender, combine the spinach, basil, cooled toasted nuts, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Start processing

Pulse several times until the ingredients are roughly chopped and beginning to combine.

Step 4: Add the cheese

Add the Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan options) to the processor and pulse a few more times to incorporate.

Step 5: Stream in the oil

With the processor running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil through the feed tube until the Spinach Basil Pesto reaches your desired consistency. For a thinner sauce, add more oil; for thicker, use less.

Step 6: Adjust seasoning

Stop and taste your Spinach Basil Pesto. Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to achieve your perfect flavor balance.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Spinach Basil Pesto

• Dry your greens thoroughly: Water droplets can make your Spinach Basil Pesto watery and reduce its shelf life. Use a salad spinner or pat leaves dry with paper towels.
• Toast nuts for enhanced flavor: This simple step adds incredible depth to your Spinach Basil Pesto with nuts. Just be sure to watch them carefully as they can burn quickly.
• Control bitterness: If your Spinach Basil Pesto tastes bitter, add a pinch more salt or a few drops of honey to balance the flavors.
• Texture control: For a chunkier Spinach Basil Pesto, pulse less. For silky-smooth results, process longer. Both have their place depending on your serving intentions.
• Customize with herbs: Create unique Spinach Basil Pesto variations with herbs by adding a small amount of mint, parsley, or cilantro to the mix.

Best Ways to Serve Spinach Basil Pesto

This versatile sauce shines in countless applications:

Pasta Perfection

Toss with hot pasta for the easiest easy Spinach Basil Pesto for pasta dinner. Reserve some pasta cooking water to thin the sauce as needed. Add cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or sautéed shrimp for a complete meal.

Sandwich Upgrade

Spread this fresh Spinach Basil Pesto for sandwiches on artisan bread with mozzarella, tomatoes, and grilled vegetables for an elevated lunch experience.

Versatile Condiment

Try Spinach Basil Pesto for salads and dips by mixing a spoonful into vinaigrettes, stirring into hummus, or dolloping onto baked potatoes.

Protein Partner

Use as a marinade for chicken or fish, or dollop onto finished steaks or salmon fillets just before serving.

Creamy Transformation

Mix with Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to create creamy Spinach Basil Pesto dressing for potato salad, coleslaw, or dipping vegetables.

Nutritional Information for Spinach Basil Pesto

(Per 2 tablespoon serving)

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1.5g
• Protein: 2.5g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2.2g
• Cholesterol: 4mg
• Sodium: 140mg
• Fiber: 0.5g

This Spinach Basil Pesto is naturally low-carb and gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences. The addition of spinach boosts the nutritional profile with extra vitamins A, C, and K compared to traditional basil-only pesto.

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigeration

Store your Spinach Basil Pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, pour a thin layer of olive oil on top to create a seal that prevents oxidation (browning).

Freezing

This Spinach Basil Pesto freezes beautifully! Following these Spinach Basil Pesto storage tips will ensure it maintains quality:

1. Freeze in ice cube trays for portion-controlled servings
2. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag
3. Label with the date and use within 3 months
4. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or add frozen cubes directly to hot pasta

Preventing Browning

To maintain that vibrant green color, add the lemon juice as directed in the recipe, as the acidity helps prevent oxidation. Additionally, always store with a thin layer of olive oil on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients in Spinach Basil Pesto?

The main ingredients are fresh spinach, basil leaves, nuts (traditionally pine nuts), Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings. This combination creates a vibrant, flavorful sauce that’s more nutritious than traditional pesto due to the added spinach.

How do you store Spinach Basil Pesto?

Store Spinach Basil Pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays, then transfer to freezer bags and store for up to 3 months.

Can you freeze Spinach Basil Pesto?

Yes, Spinach Basil Pesto freezes exceptionally well. Pour it into ice cube trays for convenient portions, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator or add frozen cubes directly to hot dishes like pasta or soups.

What dishes can Spinach Basil Pesto be used in?

Spinach Basil Pesto is incredibly versatile. Use it as pasta sauce, spread on sandwiches or wraps, dollop onto soups, mix into dips, toss with roasted vegetables, spread on pizza in place of tomato sauce, stir into scrambled eggs, or use as a marinade for meats and fish.

Conclusion

This homemade Spinach Basil Pesto recipe proves that simplicity and flavor can go hand in hand. With just a few fresh ingredients and less than 15 minutes, you can create a versatile sauce that transforms everyday meals into something special. The added spinach not only boosts the nutritional content but also makes this pesto more economical than traditional versions that rely heavily on basil alone.

Whether you’re tossing it with pasta for a quick weeknight dinner, spreading it on sandwiches for an elevated lunch, or using it as a flavor-packed condiment for grilled proteins, this Spinach Basil Pesto will become a staple in your culinary arsenal. Its make-ahead potential and freezer-friendly nature make it perfect for busy home cooks who don’t want to compromise on flavor.

Have you tried making Spinach Basil Pesto at home? What’s your favorite way to use this versatile sauce? Share your experiences and creative serving ideas in the comments below!

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