How To Make Pesto Without Basil? Try This Delicious Spinach Pesto Recipe

We sometimes complain when we have to eat our greens. We may feel forced to eat them because we keep hearing how healthy they are. This is often the case with green salads or main course dishes. But if we are served these greens in the form of a yummy dip, most of our protests melt away. We feel more inclined to try them and even find them tasty. In India, many of us relish hari (green) chutney with our snacks and meals. Internationally, the Italian pesto has many loyal fans. Pesto, which is also well-known as a pasta sauce, is made using basil (tulsi) leaves. Its name is derived from the Italian word 'pestare', meaning to pound or crush. Hence, basil may be the preferred base for this dip, but that does not mean you cannot pound any other ingredient in its place. Today, we urge you to try a different kind of pesto - one made using spinach.
Also Read: 7 Easy Classic Italian Recipes Under 30 Mins For A Quick Binge

What Can I Use Instead Of Basil In Pesto Sauce?

_{Pesto Recipe: This sauce is typically made with basil, but other greens can also be used. Photo Credit: iStock}

Classic pesto, also sometimes called pesto Genovese, is made using basil, cheese (traditionally, Parmesan and/or Pecorino), pine nuts, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper. But pesto can also be made using ingredients ranging from spinach and kale to avocados and bell peppers. The end result will accordingly be closer to or far removed from basil pesto. If you're looking to retain the lovely colour and delicate freshness of basil pesto, it is best to choose a green leafy substitute. Parsley, coriander, mint, kale, carrot greens, beetroot greens, etc. can be used in place of basil. But we recommend opting for spinach first because it adds a richly delicious flavour to the sauce. It is also an interesting way to include more of this nutritious veggie in your diet.
Also Read: Increase Shelf life Of Basil: Follow These 5 Easy Tips

How To Make Pesto Without Pine Nuts?

_{Quick Pesto Recipe: You can use cashews or almonds in place of pine nuts to make pesto. Photo Credit: iStock}

This is another common substitute question when it comes to pesto. Pine nuts may not be easily available in all our kitchens. So what should you use instead? Opt for cashews or almonds. Both these nuts can lend a pine-nut-like texture to the sauce. Other substitutes include walnuts, pistachios or sunflower seeds. However, these may alter the flavour of the dip more distinctly. Cashews and almonds won't overpower the other ingredients.
Also Read: Should You Eat Cashews On Weight Loss Diet? Here's What Experts Say

Is Pesto Healthy? Benefits Of Spinach Pesto:

Eaten in moderation, pesto can provide a range of benefits for your body. The ingredients of pesto come under the Mediterranean Diet, which is believed to reduce the risk of heart disease. Pesto contains unsaturated fats and antioxidants that can boost your health and protect your cells. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C and K, fibre, calcium, magnesium, iron and manganese. It is good for your bones, eyesight as well as energy levels. Although pesto contains cheese, you can simply choose to reduce the amount used or opt for a healthy version of it. Besides, this is not a cheese-based sauce. In limited quantities, cheese may not pose a risk to you.
Also Read: Eat Cheese, Boost Immunity? 5 Surprising Health Benefits Of Cheese

How To Make Pesto Without Basil | Quick And Easy Spinach Pesto Recipe

_{Easy Pesto recipe: Spinach pesto can be incorporated into a variety of dishes or used as a dipping sauce. Photo Credit: iStock}

Once you've washed and chopped the spinach, it will take you just 5 minutes to make the pesto. Simply add garlic, pine nuts (or cashews/ almonds), cheese, olive oil and spinach in a mixer or blender. Add salt, pepper and lemon juice to taste. Blend to form a smooth paste and enjoy! Add more olive oil if you want a sauce-like consistency. If you want to make a pesto spread, reduce the amount of olive oil for a thicker paste. You can also refrigerate the pesto for future use.

For the exact ingredient quantities and the full recipe for Spinach pesto, click here.

Wondering how to use pesto in different ways? Find some easy recipes here. Looking for more yummy and healthy green dips? Check out this list.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.