Forget your preconceived notions of pesto—this vibrant, nutty, and surprisingly delicious carrot top pesto with walnuts is about to become your new favorite condiment. While many of us toss aside the leafy greens atop our carrots, these nutrient-packed tops are a culinary goldmine, brimming with flavor and offering a sustainable way to reduce food waste. This recipe celebrates this often-overlooked ingredient, transforming it into a pesto that's both beautiful and bursting with flavor.
What is Carrot Top Pesto?
Carrot top pesto is essentially a variation on the classic basil pesto, substituting carrot greens for basil. This swap not only provides a unique flavor profile but also offers a fun and sustainable way to utilize the entire carrot, minimizing food waste. The peppery bite of the carrot greens pairs beautifully with the richness of walnuts and the sharpness of Parmesan cheese, creating a balanced and complex flavor experience.
Why Use Carrot Tops?
Beyond the delicious flavor, using carrot tops offers several advantages:
- Reduces Food Waste: A significant amount of perfectly edible carrot greens end up in the trash. Using them in pesto is a simple and effective way to reduce food waste and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.
- Nutrient-Rich: Carrot tops are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and fiber, offering a significant nutritional boost to your pesto.
- Unique Flavor Profile: Their slightly peppery and earthy flavor profile provides a delightful contrast to the traditional basil pesto.
Carrot Top Pesto with Walnuts Recipe
This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of pesto.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups packed carrot greens, thoroughly washed and roughly chopped
- ½ cup walnuts, toasted
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Carrot Greens: Wash the carrot greens thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Roughly chop them.
- Toast the Walnuts: Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let them cool slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the carrot greens, toasted walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper to a food processor.
- Blend: Pulse the ingredients until coarsely chopped, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while processing until you reach your desired consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the food processor a few times.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese to your liking.
How to Store Carrot Top Pesto
Store your homemade carrot top pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in ice cube trays or small containers for up to 3 months.
What can I use carrot top pesto with?
This versatile pesto is perfect for:
- Pasta: Toss it with your favorite pasta for a quick and healthy meal.
- Sandwiches: Spread it on sandwiches or wraps for added flavor and nutrition.
- Pizza: Use it as a pizza topping for a unique twist.
- Vegetables: Drizzle it over roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.
- Salad Dressing: Incorporate it into your favorite salad dressing for an extra zing.
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Yes, you can experiment with other nuts like pine nuts, almonds, or cashews. Each nut will offer a slightly different flavor profile.
How do I clean carrot greens properly?
Thoroughly washing the carrot greens is crucial to remove any dirt or pesticides. Rinse them under cold running water, separating the leaves to ensure all surfaces are clean. You can also soak them in a bowl of cold water for a few minutes before rinsing.
Is carrot top pesto healthy?
Yes, carrot top pesto is a healthy and nutritious option. Carrot tops are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making this pesto a flavorful and wholesome addition to your diet.
What does carrot top pesto taste like?
Carrot top pesto has a unique, earthy, and slightly peppery flavor that is both vibrant and refreshing. The walnuts add a nutty richness, while the Parmesan cheese provides a salty, umami counterpoint. The overall taste is far more complex and interesting than you might initially expect. It’s a delightful alternative to traditional basil pesto.
This carrot top pesto with walnuts offers a delicious and sustainable way to use the whole carrot. Its unique flavor profile and nutritional benefits make it a worthwhile addition to any kitchen. Enjoy!
