Pecan Pesto

Melanie Lorick
by Melanie Lorick
3/4 Cups
8 min

When you work for the family pecan business, those "super nuts" have a tendency to infiltrate recipes. Which, I don't mind because it just makes traditional dishes a little more creative. When you don't have access to pine nuts for a traditional pesto, consider substituting with pecans. Their high oil content means you won't sacrifice flavor or silkiness. The depth of flavor is robust and chances are you already have pecans in your fridge (yes, that is where they should be stored). Enjoy this quick and delicious pecan pesto!


Bonus tip: Toss the pecans in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to unlock their flavor.


I used Mammoth pecan halves, but smaller varieties (such as Elliott) will have an even higher oil content.

Recipe details
  • 3/4  Cups
  • Prep time: 5 Minutes Cook time: 3 Minutes Total time: 8 min
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Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, no stems
  • 1/2 cup freshly-grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup good EVOO
  • 1/4 cup plain pecan halves
  • 3 large garlic cloves
Instructions

Toast pecan halves in a skillet over medium heat for about 3 minutes. No oil is needed in the pan due to the pecans' naturally high oil content.
In a food processor, pulse basil leaves, garlic cloves, and pecans until finely ground.
Continue to grind while slowly adding EVOO through the top of the food processor.
Finally, add Parmesan cheese and gently pulse until just blended.
Store in the refrigerator. Freeze if you plan to use at a later date.
Tips
  • Of course, high-quality ingredients are preferable when making simple recipes. To that end, you can still make a pesto that is affordable and on-budget. Just get the best ingredients you can afford and you're pesto will be delicious.
Melanie Lorick
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Comments
  • Rita Hendricks Rita Hendricks on Dec 04, 2020

    What is EVOO... I have been cooking & baking for nearly 50yrs. maybe longer... I have never come across any ingredients with this name

    • See 1 previous
    • Rita Hendricks Rita Hendricks on Dec 04, 2020

      Thank you .... I guess I'm getting old (62yrs) I still need full words on some things.

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