Dandelion Pesto Garlic Pine (Print Version)

Vibrant dandelion greens with garlic and pine nuts create a fresh, flavorful sauce for various dishes.

# What You Need:

→ Greens & Herbs

01 - 2 cups fresh dandelion greens, washed and trimmed
02 - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, optional

→ Nuts & Cheese

03 - 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
04 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

→ Aromatics

05 - 2 large garlic cloves, peeled

→ Liquids

06 - 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

→ Seasoning

08 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
09 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# How To Make It:

01 - Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a plate and let cool slightly.
02 - In a food processor, combine dandelion greens, basil if using, garlic, toasted pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse several times until the mixture is finely chopped.
03 - With the processor running, gradually stream in the olive oil and lemon juice. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
04 - Season with salt and pepper. Pulse to combine, then taste and adjust seasoning or lemon juice as desired.
05 - Transfer pesto to a jar or bowl. Use immediately or store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to one week.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required
  • Transforms foraged or market-fresh dandelion greens into gourmet flavor
  • Versatile condiment perfect for pasta, toast, dips, and roasted vegetables
  • Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free
  • Rich in nutrients while delivering bold, complex taste
02 -
  • Store pesto with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation and browning
  • Freeze in ice cube trays for perfectly portioned servings that last up to 3 months
  • Harvest young dandelion greens in early spring for the mildest flavor
  • Bring pesto to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture
  • Adjust lemon juice to balance the bitterness based on your greens and personal taste
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