Spinach Pesto is an easy pesto recipe that's a twist on the traditional basil pesto. This homemade pesto is made with tender baby spinach leaves, almonds, garlic and a hint of fresh lemon.
For years, pesto, the fresh sauce originating in Genoa in the Liguria region of northern Italy and enjoyed by the Ancient Romans, consisted of the traditional combination of basil, garlic, olive oil, pine nuts and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
Fast forward to modern times and pesto now takes on a multitude of flavor possibilities.
Both delicious and nutritious, our Spinach Pesto recipe is made from tender baby spinach leaves and toasted almonds, is a fabulous twist on the old time favorite.
Toss with pasta, serve over chicken, fish or vegetables or stir into an omelette, the possibilities are endless!
Learn all about pesto, what does pesto taste like, how to make it, store it and even freeze it, along with lots more pesto recipes!
Swirls of Flavor Recipe Tips
Make our recipe with your favorite nut such as:
- hazelnuts
- pecans
- pine nuts
- walnuts
How to toast nuts in the microwave
To toast nuts in the microwave:
- Simply arrange nuts in single layer on paper plate.
- Microwave for 1 minute.
- Then microwave in 30-second intervals until lightly toasted.
- Timing will vary according to wattage of your microwave.
Pesto FAQ's
What do I put pesto on?
Pesto is a true summer recipe that’s so versatile. Did you know that it can be used in so many ways? You can:
- Toss with hot pasta
- Toss with vegetables
- Toss in a pasta salad
- Toss in a potato salad
- Add to salad dressing
- Add to dips
- Use as a dipping sauce
- Spread on a sandwich or toast
- Dollop on baked potatoes
- Stir into soup
- Use as a pizza sauce
- Top cooked chicken, beef, pork or seafood
- Stir into scrambled eggs
- Stir into mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt
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How To Store Pesto
Pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It’s best if you cover the surface of the pesto directly with plastic wrap before sealing container. This prevents air from discoloring the pesto. I love using mason jars to store my pesto.
Can I Freeze Pesto?
Pesto can also be frozen for up to 2 months. I love to freeze pesto in ice cube trays and then transfer to plastic freezer bags. The ice cube size is great for individual servings or to stir into soups, stews, sauces or salad dressings for extra flavor! Pesto can also be frozen in small containers.
Try Pesto Florentine in these recipes too! They're fabulously delicious!
Balsamic Portobellos Caprese
Florentine Pesto Dip
Pesto Florentine Chicken
Substitute Pesto Florentine for the store bought pesto in these recipes. You'll be happy you did!
Fontina Pesto Artisinal Pizza
Pesto Provolone Burgers
Ingredients you will need to make this recipe
- baby spinach leaves
- garlic
- sliced almonds
- Parmesan cheese
- kosher salt
- lemon zest
- extra virgin olive oil
Spinach Pesto
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Ingredients
- 4 cups (4 oz.) baby spinach leaves
- 4 cloves garlic , chopped
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds ,toasted*
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 tsp. lemon zest
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
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Instructions
- In food processor or blender, combine spinach, garlic, almonds, Parmesan and kosher salt. Process until coarsely chopped.
- Add olive oil. Process until blended and smooth.
- Store in refrigerator for up to one week with plastic wrap directly on surface of pesto or freeze in ice cube trays for up to one month.
Notes
*Toasting nuts in microwave:
- Simply arrange nuts in single layer on paper plate.
- Microwave for 1 minute.
- Then microwave in 30-second intervals until lightly toasted.
- Timing will vary according to wattage of your microwave.
Nutrition
This recipe is part of Meal Plan Monday and Weekend Potluck
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