This recipe for Tamra's Lemon Artichoke Pesto is a perfect combination of tangy flavors and creamy textures. The dish is packed with fresh ingredients including lemon, artichokes, and basil, giving it a unique and refreshing taste. It can be served as a dip, spread, or sauce and pairs well with pasta, sandwiches, or grilled meats. With a preparation time of just 20 minutes, you can enjoy this flavorful pesto in no time. It is perfect for any occasion and will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic.
- Pulse the ingredients until coarsely chopped.
- With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto is smooth and creamy.
- Add the lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pulse a few more times to combine all the ingredients.
- Transfer the pesto to a serving bowl.
- Serve as a dip with toasted bread or crackers, or use as a sauce for pasta or grilled meats.
Interesting Facts
The word "pesto" comes from the Italian word "pestare", which means "to pound or crush". This refers to the traditional method of making pesto by grinding the ingredients with a mortar and pestle.
Artichokes are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy addition to this recipe.
Lemon zest adds a burst of citrus flavor to the pesto, while the lemon juice helps to brighten the overall taste of the dish.