If you’re looking for a vibrant twist on the classic pesto, look no further than mushroom nut pesto! This delightful spread is a fusion of earthy mushrooms and aromatic herbs, making it not only flavorful but also a fantastic addition to a variety of dishes. The addition of roasted almonds or walnuts gives this pesto a nutty twist that is irresistible.
What Makes Mushroom Nut Pesto Special?
Traditional pesto is typically made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil. The addition of mushrooms and roasted almonds or walnuts, brings pesto to the next level. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies and healthy fats into your diet!
This recipe is inspired from a recipe I made in one of my undergrad classes at MSU. The classwork to become a dietitian is a fun balance of some of the hardest science classes of your life (hello organic chemistry 😭) and some really fun cooking classes. One of those really fun cooking classes was an advanced foods class where we got to try out fun recipes like this one! I loved the pesto so much, I decided to go home and make a similar recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a delicious mushroom nut pesto, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Mushrooms: Any variety will do, but cremini or shiitake add great depth of flavor.
- Nuts: Almonds or walnuts work beautifully.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves give the pesto a robust kick.
- Herbs: Fresh basil is a must if we’re making pesto.
- Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the richness.
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): For a non-vegan version, adding cheese can add creaminess and depth.
How to Use Mushroom Nut Pesto
The beauty of mushroom nut pesto lies in its versatility. Here are some delicious ways to incorporate it into your meals:
- Pasta: Toss it with your favorite pasta for a quick and flavorful dinner.
- Spread: Use it as a spread on sandwiches or toast for a savory snack.
- Dip: Serve it as a dip for fresh vegetables or crackers at your next gathering.
- Pizza: Swirl it onto pizza instead of traditional sauce for a flavor boost.
- Grains: Mix it into grains like quinoa or rice for a tasty side dish.
Storing Your Pesto
Mushroom nut pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it in ice cube trays and transferring the cubes to a zip-top bag. This way, you can enjoy a burst of flavor whenever you need it!
Mushroom Nut Pesto
Ingredients
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup almonds or walnuts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil + additional olive oil for a smoother pesto
- 6 cloves of garlic
- 1 bunch of basil (~2 cups)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spread mushrooms, nuts, garlic, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper across the baking sheet. Cook in the oven for 20 minutes.
- In a food processor, add basil, Parmesan cheese, and the mushroom and nut mixture. Process into a smooth consistency. Add olive oil and additional salt and pepper to taste.