Pumpkin pesto is a delicious and unique twist on traditional pesto. Here’s a simple recipe for making pumpkin pesto:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (raw or toasted)
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- Red pepper flakes for a hint of heat
Instructions:
- Toast Pumpkin Seeds (if not already toasted): If your pumpkin seeds are raw, you can toast them for added flavor. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the pumpkin seeds until they start to pop and turn golden brown. Remove from heat and let them cool.
- Prepare Ingredients: Peel the garlic cloves, grate the Parmesan cheese, and measure out the fresh basil leaves.
- Combine Ingredients in a Food Processor: In a food processor, combine the pumpkin puree, toasted pumpkin seeds, garlic cloves, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil leaves.
- Pulse: Pulse the ingredients in the food processor until they are finely chopped and well combined.
- Stream in Olive Oil: With the food processor running, stream in the olive oil slowly until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the food processor to ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Add Lemon Juice and Season: Add the lemon juice and season the pumpkin pesto with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, you can also add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Optional: Add Pecorino Romano: If using, add the grated Pecorino Romano cheese to the food processor and pulse a few times to combine.
- Adjust Consistency and Seasoning: If the pesto is too thick, you can add more olive oil until you reach the desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Use the pumpkin pesto immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be used as a pasta sauce, a spread on bread or crackers, or as a flavorful addition to various dishes.
Enjoy your homemade pumpkin pesto!