Dandelion Pesto Garlic Pine Nuts (Print)

Bright, fresh blend of dandelion greens, garlic, toasted pine nuts, and cheese creating a versatile vibrant sauce.

# Ingredients:

→ Greens & Herbs

01 - 2 cups fresh dandelion greens, washed and trimmed
02 - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (optional, for milder flavor)

→ Nuts & Cheese

03 - 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
04 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese or pecorino

→ Aromatics

05 - 2 large garlic cloves, peeled

→ Liquids

06 - 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
07 - Juice of 1/2 lemon

→ Seasoning

08 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
09 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# Instructions:

01 - Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a plate and cool slightly.
02 - In a food processor, combine dandelion greens, basil if using, garlic, toasted pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse several times until mixture is finely chopped.
03 - With the processor running, gradually stream in olive oil and lemon juice. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
04 - Season with salt and pepper. Pulse to combine, then taste and adjust seasoning or lemon juice as desired.
05 - Transfer pesto to a jar or bowl. Use immediately or store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to one week.

# Pro Tips:

01 -
  • Quick and easy preparation in just 15 minutes with no cooking required
  • Nutritious and flavorful way to use foraged or farmers market dandelion greens
  • Versatile condiment perfect for pasta, sandwiches, dips, and roasted vegetables
  • Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, with easy vegan adaptations
  • Unique bitter-earthy flavor profile that elevates any dish
  • Makes about 4 servings and stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week
02 -
  • Toast pine nuts until just golden—they continue cooking after you remove them from heat
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture; pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents
  • Blanch very bitter dandelion greens briefly to mellow their flavor without losing nutrients
  • Store pesto with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning
  • Freeze pesto in ice cube trays for easy, single-serving portions
  • Let the pesto come to room temperature before serving for the fullest flavor
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