Roasted Garlic Walnut Pesto for Freezing

This recipe will teach you how to make a flavorful and convenient roasted garlic walnut pesto that can be easily frozen and enjoyed later. With the perfect combination of roasted garlic, crunchy walnuts, and fresh herbs, this pesto will add a burst of flavor to any dish. It is a versatile sauce that can be used on pasta, spread on bread, or added to soups and salads. Preparing this pesto is quick and simple, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to six months, making it a handy choice for busy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 head of garlic
• 1 cup walnuts
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves.
3. Drizzle the garlic head with a little olive oil, wrap it in foil, and roast in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden.
4. Remove the garlic from the oven and let it cool slightly.
5. Once cooled, squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into a food processor or blender.
6. Add the walnuts, basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the food processor.
7. Process the ingredients until a smooth and creamy pesto consistency is achieved.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
9. Transfer the pesto to an airtight container or individual ice cube trays for freezing.
10. If using ice cube trays, cover them with plastic wrap and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the pesto cubes to a freezer bag for long-term storage.
11. If using an airtight container, seal it tightly and store in the freezer.
12. When ready to use, remove the desired amount of pesto from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for quicker thawing.
13. Enjoy the delicious roasted garlic walnut pesto on pasta, bread, or in your favorite recipes!

Interesting Facts