Wild garlic pesto

Wild garlic pesto: a spring delight

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Spring brings an explosion of flavors and colors, and wild garlic, also known as ramsons, is one of the most delicious and healthiest plants we can find during this season. With a subtle garlic taste and a fresh aroma, wild garlic transforms into a vibrant and aromatic pesto, perfect for seasoning pasta, salads, or spreads. I will guide you step by step in preparing this wild garlic pesto, a simple and quick sauce packed with health benefits.

Necessary ingredients:

- 100 g of fresh wild garlic
- 50 g of nuts (walnuts, almonds, or cashews, depending on your preference)
- 50 g of grated parmesan cheese (or another hard cheese for a vegetarian option)
- 100 ml of extra virgin olive oil
- Juice from half a lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

To achieve the perfect wild garlic pesto, it is essential to use fresh wild garlic, which can be found in moist and shady areas. Make sure the leaves are green, without spots or signs of wilting. Wash them carefully under cold running water to remove any impurities. After washing, gently dry them with a kitchen towel.

Step 2: Grinding the ingredients

In a blender or food processor, add the wild garlic, nuts, and grated parmesan. If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can lightly toast the nuts in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes until golden, but be careful not to burn them. This step will enhance the flavor and add a special taste to the pesto.

Step 3: Mixing and emulsifying

Add the lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper to the blender. Start blending the ingredients at medium speed, gradually adding the olive oil. This will help emulsify the sauce and achieve a creamy texture. Blend until the pesto is homogeneous but retains a pleasant texture with a slight crunch from the nuts.

Step 4: Final taste

Once the pesto is well blended, taste the mixture and adjust with salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. If you want a more intense garlic flavor, you can add a few extra wild garlic leaves.

Step 5: Serving and storing

This wild garlic pesto is perfect to serve immediately. You can use it to season al dente pasta, add it to salads, or as a filling for sandwiches and spreads. It is also delicious on bruschetta with tomatoes and mozzarella. If you want to store it, transfer it to a sterilized jar and cover it with a layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation. The pesto will keep in the fridge for up to a week.

Variation suggestion

For a vegan version of the pesto, replace the parmesan with nutritional yeast, which will provide a similar umami flavor. You can also experiment with different nuts or seeds, such as sunflower seeds or pine nuts, to add a personal touch.

In conclusion, wild garlic pesto is a simple and quick recipe that not only enhances spring meals but also provides an important nutrient boost. Take advantage of the wild garlic season and try this delicious recipe that will surely delight your taste buds!