Lemon Pesto Sauce Recipe: A Fresh and Zesty Twist on a Classic Favorite
Lemon pesto sauce is a bright, flavorful variation of the traditional pesto that adds a citrusy zing to your favorite dishes. Made with fresh basil, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, this refreshing sauce is perfect for pasta, grilled vegetables, seafood, and more. Whether you’re looking for a light summer topping or a quick and healthy flavor boost, lemon pesto delivers the perfect balance of tang and richness.
What Is Lemon Pesto Sauce?
Lemon pesto sauce is a vibrant spin on classic basil pesto. While traditional pesto uses ingredients like pine nuts, garlic, basil, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, this version introduces fresh lemon juice and zest to elevate the flavor profile. The result is a zesty, aromatic sauce that’s both refreshing and versatile.
This citrusy pesto is especially ideal for dishes that benefit from a light and clean finish, making it a favorite for those who enjoy bold flavors with a touch of brightness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a delicious lemon pesto sauce at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts as an alternative)
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2 garlic cloves
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1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
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Juice of 1 large lemon
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Zest of 1 lemon
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Salt and pepper to taste
Optional variations can include spinach, kale, or arugula for a leafy blend, or vegan substitutions like nutritional yeast in place of cheese.
How to Make Lemon Pesto Sauce
Making lemon pesto sauce is simple and quick. Follow these easy steps:
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Toast the nuts (optional): Lightly toast pine nuts or walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown for extra flavor.
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Blend the ingredients: In a food processor, combine basil leaves, toasted nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Pulse until finely chopped.
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Add olive oil: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the sauce reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
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Season to taste: Add salt and pepper as needed. For extra zest, add a touch more lemon juice or zest.
The result is a smooth, green sauce with a delightful balance of nuttiness, saltiness, and bright citrus notes.
How to Use Lemon Pesto Sauce
This versatile sauce can enhance a wide variety of meals:
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Pasta: Toss with spaghetti, penne, or linguine for a light, flavorful meal.
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Seafood: Drizzle over grilled shrimp, salmon, or white fish.
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Vegetables: Use as a topping for roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.
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Sandwiches: Spread on sandwiches or wraps for a tangy twist.
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Salads: Mix with a bit of yogurt or extra lemon juice to create a quick and tasty salad dressing.
You can also freeze leftover pesto in ice cube trays for easy, single-use portions.
Tips for the Best Lemon Pesto
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Use fresh, high-quality basil and lemons for the brightest flavor.
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Adjust the amount of lemon juice based on your taste preference.
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Add a small amount of water or more olive oil if the pesto is too thick.
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Conclusion
Lemon pesto sauce is a refreshing, zesty alternative to traditional pesto that brings bold flavor to any dish. Easy to make and incredibly versatile, it’s a go-to condiment for busy weeknights or summer meals. With just a handful of ingredients, you can transform everyday dishes into something bright, flavorful, and unforgettable. Try this lemon pesto recipe and bring a citrusy twist to your kitchen!