If you’re looking for a vibrant twist on classic pesto, look no further than arugula pesto! This recipe transforms peppery arugula into a bright, flavorful sauce that’s incredibly easy to make. Unlike traditional basil pesto, arugula pesto offers a unique, zesty flavor profile. I’m excited to show you how to make this delicious pesto in just minutes. Get ready for a quick and simple recipe that will elevate your meals!
Why You’ll Love This Arugula Pesto Recipe
This arugula pesto recipe is a game-changer. It’s my go-to when I crave something fresh and flavorful. The twist? A touch of lemon!
Bright and peppery flavor: Arugula pesto offers a delightful peppery kick that is balanced perfectly.
Lemon twist: The addition of lemon juice and zest brightens the pesto, balancing the natural bitterness of the arugula and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Quick and easy: This recipe is perfect for weeknight meals. It comes together in minutes with minimal effort.
Versatile uses: Use it on pasta, pizza, sandwiches, roasted vegetables, and more. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients Needed
- 2 cups of packed arugula leaves, stems removed
- 1/2 cup of shelled walnuts
- 1/2 cup fresh Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, unpeeled
- 1/2 garlic clove peeled and minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Here are a few notes and substitutions to help you customize this recipe:
Cheese: For a dairy-free option, substitute nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan cheese. Nutritional yeast will provide a cheesy, umami flavor.
Nuts: Pine nuts or almonds can be used for a different flavor profile. Pine nuts offer a milder, buttery taste, while almonds add a slightly sweeter note.
Arugula: If you find arugula too bitter, add a bit of basil or parsley to temper the bitterness. A combination of arugula and basil is also wonderful!
You can learn more about the nutritional properties of arugula on WebMD.
Garlic: Use pre-minced garlic for convenience if needed. Keep in mind that fresh garlic offers the best flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: I recommend using Parmigiano-Reggiano for the best flavor. However, Grana Padano is also a great option. Pecorino Romano adds a saltier, sharper taste.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil is crucial for achieving the best flavor. Look for one with a fruity, slightly peppery taste. You can read more about the basics of olive oil if you’re interested.
How to Make Arugula Pesto
Step 1: Brown the Garlic
Brown 6 garlic cloves with their peels on in a skillet over medium-high heat until the garlic is lightly browned in places, about 10 minutes. The aroma of the garlic as it browns is simply divine! Watch carefully to prevent burning, as burnt garlic can make the pesto bitter. Remove the garlic from the pan, cool, and remove the skins.
Step 2: Toast the Nuts
Toast the nuts in a pan over medium heat until lightly brown, or heat in a microwave on high heat for a minute or two until you get that roasted flavor. In my microwave, it takes 2 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a beautiful golden-brown color and release a nutty aroma. Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor.
Step 3: Process the Pesto
Food Processor Method: (the fast way) Combine the arugula, salt, walnuts, roasted and raw garlic into a food processor. Pulse while drizzling the olive oil into the processor. Pulsing helps to create a smoother texture without over-processing the arugula. Remove the mixture from the processor and put it into a bowl. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
Mortar and Pestle Method: Combine the nuts, salt, and garlic in a mortar. With the pestle, grind until smooth. Add the cheese and olive oil, grind again until smooth. Finely chop the arugula and add it to the mortar. Grind up with the other ingredients until smooth. This method gives a more rustic texture.
Step 4: Adjust to Taste & Add Lemon
Because the pesto is so dependent on the individual ingredients, and the strength of the ingredients depends on the season or variety, test it and add more of the ingredients to taste. Now, for the secret ingredient: add a squeeze of lemon juice and the zest of half a lemon! This will brighten the flavor and balance the bitterness of the arugula. Serve with pasta, over freshly roasted potatoes, or as a sauce for pizza.
Speaking of flavorful sauces, have you tried making your own homemade chamoy sauce? It’s another great way to add a unique twist to your meals!
Storing and Freezing Arugula Pesto
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and flavor of your arugula pesto.
Refrigerating: Arugula pesto will last in the fridge for 3-5 days. To prevent oxidation, cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil. Store it in an airtight container.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the pesto. Portion it into ice cube trays for easy use later. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe container. Alternatively, you can freeze it in small freezer-safe containers.
Thawing: Thaw frozen pesto in the refrigerator overnight. It can last frozen for 2-3 months.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Pro Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Toast the nuts to enhance their flavor.
- Add lemon juice and zest gradually, tasting as you go, to achieve the perfect balance.
- Pulse the ingredients in the food processor to avoid over-processing.
- Store pesto in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation.
- If the pesto is too thick, add more olive oil.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-processing the pesto, which can make it bitter.
- Using too much garlic, which can be overpowering.
- Skipping the toasting of the nuts, which enhances their flavor.
- Not adjusting the seasoning to taste.
- Using old or stale ingredients.
- Don’t use only raw garlic as it can be overwhelming.
Serving & Storage
Serving Ideas
Arugula pesto is incredibly versatile! Here are a few of my favorite ways to use it:
- Toss with pasta for a quick and easy meal.
- Spread on pizza as a flavorful base.
- Use as a sauce for roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables.
- Spread on sandwiches or wraps.
- Serve with grilled lamb.
- Serve over fish or chicken.
Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Storage and Make-Ahead
As mentioned earlier, store arugula pesto in the refrigerator for 3-5 days, covered with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation. For longer storage, freeze it in ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
If you are looking for another way to use up greens in your fridge, you might like this bright and tasty kale mango smoothie.
Conclusion
This arugula pesto recipe is not only easy and quick to make, but it’s also bursting with flavor. The addition of lemon juice and zest provides a unique twist that sets it apart from traditional pesto recipes. I hope you’ll find that this recipe is straightforward and that you can easily make delicious arugula pesto at home. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and serving ideas. Share this recipe with your friends and explore other pesto recipes on my blog! Consider trying this vegan basil pesto recipe next!
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about arugula pesto:
What is arugula pesto used for?
Arugula pesto is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, such as tossed with pasta, spread on pizza, used as a sauce for sandwiches or roasted vegetables, and more.
How long does arugula pesto last in the fridge and freezer?
Arugula pesto lasts for 3-5 days in the fridge and 2-3 months in the freezer. Always store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor.
What are some good substitutions for Parmesan cheese in arugula pesto?
For a dairy-free option, you can use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan. Pecorino cheese is another option that will add a saltier, sharper flavor.
How can I make arugula pesto less bitter?
The lemon juice and zest in this recipe help to balance the bitterness of the arugula. You can also add a bit of basil or parsley to further temper the bitterness.
What are the best nuts to use in arugula pesto?
Walnuts are used in this recipe, but you can also use pine nuts, almonds, or other nuts. Each type of nut will impart a slightly different flavor profile.
What are the nutritional benefits of arugula?
Arugula is rich in vitamins A and K, as well as folate, calcium, and other minerals. It’s a healthy and flavorful addition to your diet.
Can I freeze arugula pesto?
Yes, you can freeze arugula pesto. For best results, portion it into ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
If you’re looking for another great way to use the freezer for preserving food, check out this guide to making easy homemade almond milk.
Best Arugula Pesto Recipe: Bright & Easy!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown 6 garlic cloves with their peels on in a skillet over medium-high heat until the garlic is lightly browned in places, about 10 minutes. Remove the garlic from the pan, cool, and remove the skins.
- Toast the nuts in a pan over medium heat until lightly brown, or heat in a microwave on high heat for a minute or two until you get that roasted flavor.
- Food Processor Method: Combine the arugula, salt, walnuts, roasted and raw garlic into a food processor. Pulse while drizzling the olive oil into the processor. Remove the mixture from the processor and put it into a bowl. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
- Mortar and Pestle Method: Combine the nuts, salt, and garlic in a mortar. With the pestle, grind until smooth. Add the cheese and olive oil, grind again until smooth. Finely chop the arugula and add it to the mortar. Grind up with the other ingredients until smooth.
- Test the pesto and add more of the ingredients to taste. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and the zest of half a lemon.
Notes
Lia Monet is a food blogger, recipe developer, and the founder of EasyAsMeals, a food blog focused on easy recipes, quick dinners, and everyday home cooking. She creates tested, family-friendly recipes using simple ingredients to help busy families cook affordable and delicious meals at home.
