dill pesto sauce recipe

The Best dill pesto sauce recipe

I’ve been making dill pesto sauce for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a classic Italian sauce with a twist, as it incorporates fresh dill into the traditional basil-based pesto. The result is a bright, herby flavor that complements pasta, pizza, and even vegetables. I love how versatile this sauce is – it’s perfect for everyday meals or special occasions like holiday gatherings.

My kids adore it on their pasta, and I appreciate how healthy it is, thanks to the abundance of fresh herbs and olive oil. The origins of this sauce date back to the Italian Riviera, where the Ligurian people have been making pesto for centuries. Traditionally, pesto was made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. However, I like to mix things up by substituting basil with fresh dill.

The flavor is still rich and creamy, but with a more delicate taste that suits our family’s taste buds. Making dill pesto sauce is a breeze. Simply combine fresh dill leaves, garlic cloves, pine nuts (or walnuts), Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), salt, and olive oil in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Taste and adjust as needed. One thing I love about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, add more cloves. If you prefer a creamier sauce, add more olive oil or substitute some of the water with Greek yogurt.

This dill pesto sauce recipe has become a family favorite over the years. We enjoy it on pasta nights, pizza parties, and even as a dip for vegetables. It’s also an excellent addition to salads and wraps.

Dill Pesto Sauce Recipe

4.5 from 1992 votes

This Dill Pesto Sauce Recipe is a vibrant and flavorful sauce made with fresh dill, garlic, and pine nuts, perfect for pasta dishes or as a spread on sandwiches. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

1 cup fresh dill leaves
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1To begin, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and lightly golden.
2Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3While the pine nuts are cooling, combine the fresh dill leaves, basil leaves, and garlic cloves in a food processor.
4Pulse until finely chopped.
5Add the toasted pine nuts and Parmesan cheese to the food processor.
6Pulse until the mixture is well combined and the pine nuts are finely chopped.
7Scrape down the sides of the food processor as needed.
8With the food processor running, slowly pour in the extra virgin olive oil through the feed tube.
9Process until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
10Taste the pesto and add salt and pepper to your liking.
11Transfer the pesto to a mixing bowl and stir in the lemon juice.
12Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
13If the pesto is too thick, add a little more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.

🔧Equipment

Food processor
Mixing bowl
Skillet

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 30g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 10mg🧂Sodium: 250mg🌾Total Carbs: 10g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

Tips: You can store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze it for up to three months. For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Watch Video Of How Dill Pesto Sauce Recipe Works

I love making dill pesto sauce. It is easy to make, healthy, and delicious. It is a great way to incorporate more herbs into your diet.

It is also a versatile sauce that can be used in many ways. I always have some on hand in my refrigerator for a quick and easy meal. I think the best part about this recipe is that it is a great way to use up any extra herbs you have in your garden.

I always have extra dill and basil and this recipe is a great way to use it up. I also love how the flavors of the herbs and garlic come through in the pesto. It is a bright and flavorful sauce that can be used in so many ways.

I hope you will give it a try and love it as much as my family does. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Dill Pesto Sauce

Q: What type of cheese should I use in this recipe?

For this recipe, you can use either Parmesan or nutritional yeast as a substitute.

Q: Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dill pesto sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 6 months.

Q: How do I store leftover dill pesto sauce?

You can store leftover dill pesto sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 6 months.

Q: Can I use other herbs instead of fresh dill?

Yes, you can experiment with other herbs like parsley or basil if you prefer their flavor over fresh dill.

Q: How do I reheat this sauce?

To reheat this sauce, simply place it in a pan over low heat and stir occasionally until warmed through.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly since we use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

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