Bright, zesty, and bursting with fresh flavors, this Lemony Pea Pesto is a vibrant twist on a classic. Creamy peas blend seamlessly with tangy lemon, nutty Parmesan, and fragrant basil for a sauce that’s both light and indulgent. Perfectly balanced, it’s ready in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The smooth, velvety texture pairs beautifully with pasta, grilled veggies, or crusty bread, offering endless versatility.
Every bite delivers a refreshing pop of sweetness from the peas, balanced by the bright citrus notes and a hint of garlic. This pesto is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free way to elevate your meals. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to bring a burst of sunshine to your table. It’s a dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to savor.
Fresh & Zesty Ingredients
- ½ cup frozen peas, thawed (or fresh peas, blanched)
- Handful of fresh mint and basil (about ¼ cup each, loosely packed)
- ½ clove garlic, minced (adjust to taste)
- Juice of ½ lemon (or a few big squeezes, to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons grated pecorino cheese (substitute with Parmesan if needed)
- Drizzle of olive oil (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- For topping: lemon zest & red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
Simple Steps to Lemony Pea Pesto
- Prepare the ingredients: Thaw the peas (or blanch fresh ones) and mince the garlic.
- Blend the pesto: In a food processor, pulse the peas, mint, basil, garlic, lemon juice, pecorino cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil until smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper, then pulse again. Taste and adjust lemon juice, cheese, or seasoning as desired.
- Serve: Spread the pesto on grilled crusty bread (optional: rub the bread with garlic and drizzle with olive oil). Garnish with lemon zest and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Enjoy: Use as a dip, spread, or toss with pasta or salads for a fresh twist!
Creative Ways to Serve Your Lemony Pea Pesto
This vibrant pesto is incredibly versatile! Spread it on grilled crusty bread for a quick appetizer, toss it with pasta for a light meal, or dollop it on grilled chicken or fish for extra flavor. It also makes a fantastic dip for raw veggies or a zesty topping for grain bowls.
Storage Tips to Keep Your Pesto Fresh
Store your Lemony Pea Pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To prevent browning, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing. For longer storage, freeze it in ice cube trays and transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Quick Swaps for Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this pesto to suit your taste! Swap pecorino for parmesan or a vegan cheese alternative. Replace mint with parsley or cilantro for a different herb profile. You can also add pine nuts or walnuts for a nutty twist.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
Use pre-minced garlic or a garlic press to save time. If you’re using frozen peas, thaw them quickly by rinsing them under warm water. For an even faster prep, skip the food processor and mash everything together with a fork for a chunkier texture.
Equipment You’ll Need for Perfect Pesto
A food processor or mini chopper works best for blending the ingredients smoothly. If you don’t have one, a blender or even a mortar and pestle can do the trick. Just make sure to scrape down the sides occasionally for even mixing.
Lemony Pea Pesto
Equipment
- food processor
Ingredients
Pesto Ingredients
- ½ cup frozen peas, thawed (or fresh ones, blanched)
- handful mint and basil
- ½ clove minced garlic
- a few big squeezes of lemon juice (to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons grated pecorino cheese*
- drizzle olive oil
- salt & pepper
Toppings
- lemon zest & red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Pulse all pesto ingredients together in a food processor. Taste and adjust.
- Serve on grilled crusty bread drizzled with olive oil and rubbed with garlic. (also good on pasta, in salads, etc…)