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Fresh Nettle Pesto

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A quick and easy homemade pesto featuring fresh foraged nettles and toasted pine nuts, perfect for spring and early summer dishes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh nettle leaves (packed), blanched
  • 1/2 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
  • 2 large garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1/3 to 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Wear gloves and rinse 4 cups of fresh nettle leaves thoroughly to remove dirt and bugs.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch nettles for about 1 minute until wilted and darkened.
  3. Immediately transfer nettles to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking and preserve color.
  4. Drain nettles well and squeeze out excess water.
  5. Heat a small skillet over medium heat and toast 1/2 cup pine nuts for 3-4 minutes until golden and fragrant, stirring frequently.
  6. In a food processor, combine blanched nettles, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, and Parmesan cheese if using. Pulse to break down ingredients.
  7. With the processor running, slowly stream in 1/3 to 1/2 cup olive oil until creamy but with some texture. Scrape down sides as needed.
  8. Add lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Pulse a few more times to mix well.
  9. Transfer pesto to a clean jar or bowl. Use fresh or store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze in ice cube trays for longer storage.

Notes

Always wear gloves when handling raw nettles to avoid stings. Blanch nettles quickly to preserve color and remove sting. Toast pine nuts carefully to avoid burning. Adjust olive oil quantity for desired pesto texture. Store pesto with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning.

Nutrition

Keywords: nettle pesto, fresh nettles, homemade pesto, pine nuts, spring recipe, easy pesto, vegan pesto option, gluten-free pesto

Find it online: https://zoeplate.com/fresh-nettle-pesto-recipe-easy-homemade-pine-nuts-foraged-flavor/