Pesto Without Basil (Using Any Leafy Green!)

Got extra greens? Make some Leafy Greens Pesto! Here are 3 recipes for carrot top, spinach, and watercress pesto (all in under 5 minutes!)

5 from 6 ratings

Pesto Without Basil (Using Any Leafy Green!)

If you have 5 minutes and leftover carrot greens, then you need to try this leafy greens pesto without basil! It's a great way to use up any wilting greens in your fridge and reduce food waste. So, brighten up any dish and make this easy homemade pesto.

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Appetizers, Dips, Sauces, and Salsas, Pastas

Cuisine: Italian

Diet: Diabetic, Gluten Free, Halal, Hindu, Kosher, Low Calorie, Low Lactose, Vegetarian

Keyword: carrot greens pesto, carrot top pesto, leafy greens pesto, pesto without basil, spinach pesto

Diet: Gluten-Free, Low Carb, Vegetarian

Occasion: 4th of July, Game Day, St. Patrick's Day, Thanksgiving, Valentine's Day

Time: 15 minutes or less, 30 minutes or less, 45 minutes or less

Servings: cup of each

Author: Sarah Bond

Ingredients

Carrot Greens Pesto

2 cups carrot top leaves 60 g
¼ cup pinenuts 35 g

Watercress Pesto

2 cups watercress 60 g
¼ cup walnuts 35 g
1 Tbsp lemon juice 15 mL

Spinach Pesto

2 cups spinach 60 g
¼ cup almonds 35 g

For all of the pestos

½ cup grated parmesan 50 g
3 cloves garlic
½ tsp each salt and pepper
½ cup extra virgin olive oil 118 mL

Instructions

Blitz: Choose which type of pesto you'd like to make. Add all the ingredients listed under it to a food processor, along with parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper. Pulse until leaves are broken down.
Oil: Scrape down the sides of the food processor and put the lid back on. With the food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil until fully incorporated.

Notes

Storage: This pesto will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week in an airtight container.

Nutrition