This recipe is a twist on traditional basil pesto, using olives and parsley to create a flavorful and vibrant sauce. It is perfect as a spread on bread or crackers, or tossed with pasta for a quick and easy meal. The combination of briny olives, fresh parsley, garlic, and Parmesan cheese makes this pesto incredibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted green olives
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a food processor, combine the olives, parsley, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped.
- With the food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the pesto to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Serve as a spread on bread or crackers, or toss with cooked pasta for a quick and delicious meal.
Interesting Facts
Pesto originated in Genoa, Italy, and traditionally consists of fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
This version of pesto substitutes parsley for basil and adds olives for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
The word 'pesto' comes from the Italian word 'pestare,' meaning 'to pound' or 'to crush,' referring to the traditional method of making pesto by grinding the ingredients with a mortar and pestle.