As I delved into the world of culinary delights, I stumbled upon a unique twist to the classic pesto sauce that left my taste buds tingling with delight – almond pesto. This innovative blend of fresh basil, roasted almonds, and parmesan cheese, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, creates a symphony of flavors that is both nutty and savory.
In this blog post, I will take you on a culinary journey through the realms of almond pesto, sharing insights on what makes this recipe work, the essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, storage tips, nutrition information, serving suggestions, ingredient alternatives, and answers to frequently asked questions.

What is almond pesto?
Almond pesto is a delightful variation of the traditional Italian sauce, pesto, that typically consists of basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
In this version, roasted almonds are used as a nutty alternative to pine nuts, adding a unique flavor and texture to the sauce.
The almonds lend a subtle crunch and a rich, buttery taste, complementing the fresh basil and sharp parmesan cheese perfectly.
Why this recipe works?
The magic of almond pesto lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures it offers. The fresh basil provides a fragrant and herbaceous base, while the roasted almonds bring a nutty crunch that elevates the sauce to new heights.
The parmesan cheese adds a salty and savory note, binding all the ingredients together, while the extra virgin olive oil provides a silky smoothness and richness that coats your palate with every bite.
The combination of these elements creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both comforting and luxurious, making almond pesto a versatile and delectable sauce for various dishes.
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Ingredients:
- Fresh basil leaves: Basil is the star of pesto, contributing a fresh, herbaceous flavor and vibrant green color. Its aromatic qualities add depth and complexity to the sauce, giving it a distinctly Italian flair.
- Garlic: Garlic adds a pungent, savory flavor to the pesto, enhancing its overall depth and complexity. It provides a sharp contrast to the sweetness of the basil and helps to balance the richness of the other ingredients.
- Roasted almonds: Almonds add a nutty richness and texture to the pesto, complementing the basil and garlic perfectly. Their earthy flavor provides a wonderful contrast to the brightness of the herbs and adds depth to the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami-rich flavor to the pesto, enhancing its overall complexity. It also contributes to the creamy texture of the sauce, helping to bind the ingredients together.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Olive oil serves as the base of the pesto, providing richness and a silky texture. Its fruity flavor enhances the other ingredients and helps to marry their flavors together, creating a harmonious sauce.
- Kosher salt: Salt is a crucial seasoning agent that helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients in the pesto. It enhances the natural sweetness of the basil and balances the richness of the cheese and nuts.
- Black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle heat and spice to the pesto, complementing the other flavors and adding depth. Its warmth helps to balance the richness of the cheese and nuts, making the sauce more complex.

Step-by-step Instructions:
Step 1:
Gather your ingredients: fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, roasted almonds, grated parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
Step 2:
In a food processor or blender, add the fresh basil leaves, roasted almonds, grated parmesan cheese, peeled garlic cloves, kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
Step 3:
Turn on the food processor or blender and pulse the ingredients for about 15 seconds. This initial pulse helps to break down the ingredients and start the blending process.
Step 4:
Pause and scrape down the sides of the food processor or blender using a spatula. This ensures that all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 5:
With the food processor or blender running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Continue blending until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This should take about 30 seconds to a minute.
Step 6:
Stop the food processor or blender and taste the almond pesto. Adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper according to your preference.
Step 7:
Transfer the almond pesto into a clean, airtight container. Make sure to scrape out all the pesto from the food processor or blender.
Step 8:
Seal the container tightly and store the almond pesto in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. It can be stored for up to one week.
Step 9:
When ready to use, simply spoon out the desired amount of almond pesto from the container. Use it as a spread on sandwiches, toss it with pasta, or drizzle it over grilled meats or vegetables.
Step 10:
Enjoy the rich, nutty flavor of your homemade almond pesto, adding a burst of deliciousness to any dish!
Tips:
To enhance your culinary experience with almond pesto, consider the following tips:
– Toast the almonds before blending to intensify their nutty flavor.
– Experiment with different types of nuts such as walnuts or pistachios for a unique twist.
– Use a combination of basil and spinach for a milder and greener pesto.
– Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick to brighten the flavors.
– Customize the consistency of the pesto by adjusting the amount of olive oil to your liking.

How to store leftovers?
To ensure the longevity and freshness of your almond pesto, follow these storage guidelines:
– Transfer the pesto to a clean glass jar or airtight container.
– Smooth the surface of the pesto with a spatula to remove any air pockets.
– Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top of the pesto to create a protective seal.
– Cover the container with a tight-fitting lid and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
– For long-term storage, freeze the pesto in ice cube trays and transfer the frozen cubes to a resealable freezer bag for up to three months.
Nutrition Information:
Almond pesto is not only a flavorful condiment but also a nutritious addition to your meals. Here is the approximate nutrition information for a 1 tablespoon serving of almond pesto:
– Calories: 80 kcal
– Total Fat: 8g
– Saturated Fat: 1.5g
– Cholesterol: 3mg
– Sodium: 60mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 2g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Protein: 2g
How would I recommend serving almond pesto?
To elevate your dining experience with almond pesto, consider the following serving suggestions:
Pasta Perfection: Toss almond pesto with freshly cooked pasta and cherry tomatoes for a quick and satisfying meal.
Savory Sandwich Spread: Slather almond pesto on toasted bread, layer with sliced avocado and turkey, and enjoy a gourmet sandwich.
Grilled Goodness: Brush almond pesto on grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables for a burst of flavor.
Dipping Delight: Serve almond pesto as a dip for crudité, crackers, or breadsticks at your next gathering.
Alternatives can you use for the ingredients if not available
If you find yourself missing an ingredient for almond pesto, fear not! Here are some suitable substitutes to rescue your culinary endeavors:
Nuts Galore: Swap roasted almonds with pine nuts, walnuts, pistachios, or cashews for a different texture and flavor profile.
Herb Swap: Replace basil with arugula, parsley, cilantro, or mint for a unique and vibrant twist on traditional pesto.
Cheese Choices: Substitute parmesan cheese with pecorino romano, asiago, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Oil Options: Use avocado oil, walnut oil, or sunflower oil in place of extra virgin olive oil for a distinct taste in your almond pesto.

Almond pesto Recipe
Equipment
- blender
Ingredients
- 3 cups packed fresh basil leaves
- 3 garlic large cloves
- 1/2 cup roasted almonds
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
Instructions
Step 1:
- Gather your ingredients: fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, roasted almonds, grated parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
Step 2:
- In a food processor or blender, add the fresh basil leaves, roasted almonds, grated parmesan cheese, peeled garlic cloves, kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
Step 3:
- Turn on the food processor or blender and pulse the ingredients for about 15 seconds. This initial pulse helps to break down the ingredients and start the blending process.
Step 4:
- Pause and scrape down the sides of the food processor or blender using a spatula. This ensures that all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 5:
- With the food processor or blender running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Continue blending until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This should take about 30 seconds to a minute.
Step 6:
- Stop the food processor or blender and taste the almond pesto. Adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper according to your preference.
Step 7:
- Transfer the almond pesto into a clean, airtight container. Make sure to scrape out all the pesto from the food processor or blender.
Step 8:
- Seal the container tightly and store the almond pesto in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. It can be stored for up to one week.
Step 9:
- When ready to use, simply spoon out the desired amount of almond pesto from the container. Use it as a spread on sandwiches, toss it with pasta, or drizzle it over grilled meats or vegetables.
Step 10:
- Enjoy the rich, nutty flavor of your homemade almond pesto, adding a burst of deliciousness to any dish!
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I make almond pesto without cheese for a vegan version?
– Yes, you can omit the cheese in almond pesto or use a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option.
2. Is almond pesto suitable for nut allergies?
– If you have a nut allergy, you can substitute the almonds with seeds such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to create a nut-free version of pesto.
3. Can I freeze almond pesto for future use?
– Absolutely! Freeze almond pesto in ice cube trays, pop out the frozen cubes, and store them in a freezer bag for convenient portioning and extended shelf life.
4.How long can I keep almond pesto in the refrigerator?
– Almond pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week if properly sealed in an airtight container and topped with a layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation.
5. Can I adjust the consistency of almond pesto to my preference?
– Yes, you can customize the thickness of almond pesto by varying the amount of olive oil added during blending. Add more oil for a thinner sauce or reduce it for a thicker texture.
6. What dishes pair well with almond pesto besides pasta?
– Almond pesto is a versatile sauce that complements a wide range of dishes such as grilled meats, roasted vegetables, sandwiches, salads, and even as a pizza or bruschetta topping.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, almond pesto is a delightful departure from the traditional pesto sauce, offering a nutty twist that tantalizes the taste buds and enhances your culinary creations. By combining the vibrant flavors of fresh basil, roasted almonds, parmesan cheese, and olive oil, you can create a versatile and delicious sauce that elevates any dish to gourmet status.
Whether stirred into pasta, smeared on sandwiches, drizzled over grilled proteins, or used as a dip, almond pesto adds a touch of elegance and complexity to your meals.
So, next time you crave a burst of flavor, reach for a jar of almond pesto and savor the rich and nutty goodness that awaits you. Cheers to culinary creativity and the joy of exploring new taste sensations with almond pesto!
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Hi! I'm Mary Lee. I love helping people eat yummy and healthy food. I live in Oregon. Cooking is my happy place. Let's make tasty dishes together!