Name: Ramp and Parsley Pesto Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: ⅔ cup Walnuts; ½ cup extra virgin olive oil; ½ cup parmiggiano-reggiano cheese; 1 bunch small parsley; 1 bunch small ramps; pinch salt

This charming ramp and parsley pesto recipe brings an adventurous twist to the classic pesto. The recipe makes use of ramps and parsley, giving it a unique, fresh, and slightly spicy flavor profile that's sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

Photos of Ramp and Parsley Pesto Recipe

The ramps used in this recipe might not be a common sight in most homes. They are a type of wild onion, similar to leeks, and are renowned for their strong garlic-onion flavor. They can usually be found in farmers markets or specialty stores during their short spring season. If ramps are not available, leeks or green onions can be used as a decent substitute.

Ramp and Parsley Pesto Ingredients

Walnuts: Walnuts will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to this pesto recipe.

Olive oil: Olive oil is used for its rich and fruity flavor that helps to bind all the flavors together.

Parmiggiano-Reggiano cheese: This cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the freshness of the ramps and parsley.

Parsley: Parsley lends a fresh and slightly bitter taste to balance out the richness of the other ingredients.

Ramps: Ramps impart a strong garlic-onion flavor that's the star of this pesto recipe.

One reader, Laurens Windsor says:

This ramp and parsley pesto recipe is a game-changer! The combination of fresh ramps and parsley creates a unique and vibrant flavor. The toasted walnuts add a delightful crunch, and the parmiggiano-reggiano cheese brings it all together. It's a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their pesto game!

Laurens Windsor

Techniques Required for Making Pesto

How to toast walnuts: In a dry frying pan over medium heat, toast the walnuts, tossing from time to time for about 5 to 7 minutes until fragrant.

How to blanch parsley and ramps: Bring a large kettle of salty water to a rolling boil. Fill a large bowl with ice water. Blanch the parsley in the boiling water for 1 minute, then submerge it in the ice water. Cut the leaves off the ramps, leaving the white parts for another use. Blanch the ramp leaves in the boiling water for 30 seconds, then douse in the ice water.

How to drain and dry parsley and ramps: Drain the parsley and ramp leaves, then put them in a kitchen towel. Wrap the towel around the greens, and twist one end of the towel one way, and the other end of the towel the opposite way. Wring out the parsley and ramps tightly to drain as much water as possible.

How to chop and process the pesto: Chop the parsley and ramps well and put them into the bowl of a food processor. Chop the walnuts well and add them to the food processor. Add the parmigiano cheese and a healthy pinch of salt. Pulse the mixture together a few times, then, with the motor running, drizzle in the olive oil slowly. Stop the food processor immediately after the oil is incorporated.

How to serve the pesto: Serve over meals and enjoy!

How To Make Ramp and Parsley Pesto

Add some savory flavors to your dish with this parsley pesto. It’s blended with toasted walnuts, olive oil, and ramp for a piquant, garlicky flavor.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

⅔cupwalnuts
½cupextra virgin olive oil
½: 5px; letter-spacing: 2px”>1bunchsmall parsley
1bunchsmall ramps,or thin green garlic
pinchsalt

Instructions

In a dry frying pan over medium heat, toast the walnuts. Toss from time to time for about 5 to 7 minutes until fragrant.
Bring a large kettle of salty water to a rolling boil. Fill a large bowl with ice water. Blanch the parsley in the boiling water for 1 minute, then submerge it in the ice water.
Cut the leaves off the ramps, leaving the white parts for another use. Blanch the ramp leaves in the boiling water for 30 seconds. Douse in the ice water.
Drain the parsley and ramp leaves, then put them in a kitchen towel. Wrap the towel around the greens, and twist one end of the towel one way, and the other end of the towel the opposite way.
Wring out the parsley and ramps tightly. Drain as much water as possible.
Chop the parsley and ramps well and put them into the bowl of a food processor. Chop the walnuts well and add into the food processor. Add the Parmigiano cheese and a healthy pinch of salt.
Pulse the mixture together a few times, then, with the motor running, drizzle in the olive oil slowly. Stop the food processor immediately after the oil is incorporated. Taste for salt, and add if needed.
Serve over meals, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Serve within a 2 days.
For storage, keep covered in the fridge with a thin layer of olive oil over it. Freeze leftover after 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 1711.25kcal
Fat: 176.77g
Saturated Fat: 37.26g
Trans Fat: 1.04g
Monounsaturated Fat: 113.01g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 18.25g
Carbohydrates: 13.75g
Fiber: 5.16g
Sugar: 3.48g
Protein: 25.55g
Cholesterol: 89.76mg
Sodium: 950.09mg
Calcium: 763.29mg
Potassium: 728.35mg
Iron: 6.45mg
Vitamin A: 540.58µg
Vitamin C: 101.09mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Preparing Pesto

When toasting walnuts, it's important to keep a close eye on them as they can easily burn due to their high oil content. The moment they start releasing their nutty aroma, they're done. Over-toasting can result in a bitter taste which can affect the overall flavor of your pesto.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Ramp and Parsley Pesto

Prep ahead: You can toast the walnuts and blanch the parsley and ramps a day in advance, and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This will save you time on the day you plan to make the pesto.

Use a food processor: Using a food processor to chop the ingredients will save you time and effort compared to chopping everything by hand.

Multi-task: While the walnuts are toasting, you can blanch the parsley and ramps to maximize your time in the kitchen.

Organize your ingredients: Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are measured and ready to go. This will help you work more efficiently.

Clean as you go: Wash and put away any utensils or equipment you used as you cook to keep your workspace tidy and save time on cleanup later.

Substitute Ingredients For Ramp and Parsley Pesto Recipe

walnuts - Substitute with pine nuts: Pine nuts have a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor that works well in pesto recipes.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable alternative for blending into pesto.
parmiggiano-reggiano cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano cheese: Pecorino romano cheese offers a tangy and salty flavor that complements the pesto, similar to parmiggiano-reggiano.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh and vibrant flavor, adding a unique twist to the pesto while still maintaining a green herb base.
ramps - Substitute with green onions: Green onions offer a mild onion flavor and a hint of sweetness, making them a suitable substitute for ramps in pesto.

Presentation Ideas for Ramp and Parsley Pesto

Elevate the pesto with a drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar: Create a beautiful design on the plate with a drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing the pesto with delicate and colorful edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, to bring a pop of color and a hint of floral aroma.
Serve on a bed of homemade crostini: Elevate the dish by serving the ramp and parsley pesto on a bed of crispy, golden-brown homemade crostini, adding a delightful crunch and texture to each bite.
Accent with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts: Enhance the visual appeal and add a nutty flavor by sprinkling the pesto with lightly toasted pine nuts, providing a delightful contrast in texture.
Present in individual ramekins: For an elegant and refined presentation, serve the pesto in individual ramekins, allowing each guest to enjoy their own portion with a touch of sophistication.
Accompany with a side of artisanal crackers: Serve the ramp and parsley pesto alongside a selection of artisanal crackers, offering a delightful accompaniment that complements the flavors of the pesto.
Incorporate a swirl of herb-infused olive oil: Enhance the visual appeal and add a burst of flavor by incorporating a carefully crafted swirl of herb-infused olive oil on the plate, creating a stunning presentation.
Present on a rustic wooden platter: Showcase the pesto on a rustic wooden platter, adding a touch of warmth and charm to the presentation, and creating a visually appealing contrast against the vibrant green pesto.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pesto

Frying pan: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It typically has a long handle and low, flared sides.
Large kettle: A large pot used for boiling water or cooking large batches of food.
Large bowl: A bowl used for mixing, tossing, and holding large quantities of ingredients.
Ice water: Water that has been chilled with ice, used for quickly cooling down blanched vegetables or stopping the cooking process.
Kitchen towel: A cloth towel used for drying hands, wiping surfaces, and handling hot cookware.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Pesto

To store the ramp and parsley pesto, transfer it to an airtight container or jar. Pour a thin layer of olive oil over the surface of the pesto to prevent oxidation and discoloration. Cover the container tightly with a lid and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freezing the pesto is a great option. Spoon the pesto into ice cube trays, filling each compartment about 3/4 full. Cover the tray with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer until the pesto cubes are solid, about 2-3 hours.
Once frozen, remove the pesto cubes from the ice cube tray and transfer them to a labeled freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out any excess air before sealing the bag to prevent freezer burn.
When you're ready to use the frozen pesto, remove the desired number of cubes from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature. You can also add the frozen pesto cubes directly to hot pasta, soups, or sauces, allowing them to melt and incorporate into the dish.
Frozen ramp and parsley pesto will maintain its best quality for up to 6 months. After that, it will still be safe to consume but may experience some changes in texture and flavor.

How To Reheat Leftover Pesto

To reheat leftover ramp and parsley pesto, start by removing it from the refrigerator and letting it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the pesto to regain its smooth texture and allow the flavors to meld together again.
Once the pesto has reached room temperature, you can reheat it using one of the following methods:
- Microwave: Transfer the desired amount of pesto to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in the microwave on high power for 15-20 seconds at a time, stirring well between each interval, until the pesto is heated through and has reached your desired temperature.
- Stovetop: Place the pesto in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir the pesto constantly to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan. Heat the pesto until it is warmed through and has reached your desired temperature, which should only take a few minutes.
If you find that the pesto has thickened up too much during storage, you can thin it out by stirring in a small amount of extra virgin olive oil or warm water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Be careful not to overheat the pesto, as this can cause the parmesan cheese to melt and separate from the other ingredients, resulting in an unpleasant texture.
Once the pesto is heated through, you can serve it immediately over your favorite pasta, bread, or vegetables. Enjoy the bright, fresh flavors of the ramps and parsley in this delicious and versatile sauce!

Interesting Fact About Ramp and Parsley Pesto

Ramp and parsley pesto is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, such as pasta, sandwiches, or as a topping for grilled meats.

Is Making Pesto at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this ramp and parsley pesto recipe is quite high. The main ingredients, ramps and parsley, are typically in season during spring, making them more affordable. Additionally, walnuts and olive oil are commonly found in most households. The recipe's simplicity and use of basic ingredients make it a budget-friendly choice. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Pesto Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The ramp and parsley pesto recipe is a nutritious and flavorful condiment that offers several health benefits. Here's an analysis of the recipe's healthiness:

Walnuts are a great source of healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health. They also provide protein, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus.
Extra virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and muscles.
Parsley is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and iron. It also contains antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
Ramps, a type of wild onion, are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. They also contain sulfur compounds that may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

While this pesto recipe is generally healthy, there are a few suggestions to make it even more nutritious:

Increase the proportion of parsley and ramps to boost the vitamin and mineral content of the pesto
Reduce the amount of cheese to lower the overall saturated fat and sodium content
Use a lighter hand with the olive oil to decrease the calorie density of the pesto
Consider adding other nutrient-dense ingredients, such as spinach or kale, to further enhance the nutritional profile

By incorporating these suggestions, you can create a pesto that not only tastes delicious but also provides a concentrated dose of essential nutrients to support overall health and well-being.

Editor's Opinion on This Pesto Recipe

This ramp and parsley pesto recipe is a delightful twist on the classic pesto. The combination of ramps and parsley adds a unique and fresh flavor to the dish, while the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. The blanching process helps to retain the vibrant green color of the herbs, resulting in a visually appealing pesto. The use of parmigiano-reggiano cheese and extra virgin olive oil enhances the richness and depth of the flavors. This pesto is versatile and can be used as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a topping for grilled meats. It's a simple yet elegant recipe that will surely impress your guests.

Enhance Your Ramp and Parsley Pesto Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Create a delicious garlic bread by toasting slices of baguette with a garlic and herb butter spread.

Roasted Vegetables: Prepare a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, seasoned with olive oil and herbs.

Fruit Salad: Whip up a refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, tossed in a light citrus dressing.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Like Pesto

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy mushroom risotto is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of earthy mushrooms and creamy risotto rice makes for a satisfying meal.

Citrus Grilled Chicken: This citrus grilled chicken recipe is a refreshing and zesty dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The tangy citrus marinade adds a burst of flavor to the juicy grilled chicken.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This mango coconut chia pudding is a light and refreshing dessert that is perfect for a hot day. The tropical flavors of mango and coconut come together in this healthy and delicious treat.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Pesto

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and bubbly for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with crispy slices of toasted baguette topped with a flavorful mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. It's the perfect way to kick off a dinner party or gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious texture of a classic strawberry cheesecake, adorned with fresh strawberry slices and a drizzle of sweet strawberry sauce for a delightful and satisfying treat.

Why trust this Ramp and Parsley Pesto Recipe:

This recipe uses fresh, seasonal ramps and parsley to create a vibrant and flavorful pesto. The use of walnuts adds a delightful nuttiness, while the parmiggiano-reggiano cheese provides a rich and savory depth of flavor. The blanching process ensures the herbs maintain their bright color and fresh taste. With the addition of extra virgin olive oil, this pesto achieves a perfect balance of creaminess and richness. Trust in the quality and combination of these ingredients to elevate your dish and bring a burst of springtime flavors to your table.

Want to share your own recipe or discuss this Ramp and Parsley Pesto further? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How long does the ramp and parsley pesto last in the refrigerator?

The ramp and parsley pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Be sure to cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to help preserve its vibrant color and flavor.

Can I freeze the ramp and parsley pesto?

Yes, you can freeze the pesto in an airtight container or ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before using.

What can I serve the ramp and parsley pesto with?

This pesto is versatile and can be used as a spread on sandwiches, tossed with pasta, drizzled over grilled vegetables, or used as a marinade for meats and seafood. Get creative and use it in any way you like!

Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?

Absolutely! You can substitute the walnuts with pine nuts, almonds, or even cashews for a different flavor profile. Feel free to experiment and find the nut that suits your taste preferences.

Are there any alternatives to ramps if I can't find them?

If ramps are not available, you can use a combination of green onions and garlic to mimic their flavor. Simply adjust the quantities to your taste and enjoy the unique flavor of this pesto.