Name: Middle Eastern Lemon Pesto Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 16
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 cups basil leaves; 1 cup italian parsley; 2 cloves garlic; ¼ cup olive oil; 2 oz lemon; ¼ tsp cumin; 1 tsp coriander; 1 tsp paprika; Jalapeno; ½ cup cashews; ½ tsp salt

Dive into the rich flavors of the Middle East with this zesty lemon pesto sauce. Combining the freshness of basil leaves and Italian parsley with the zing of a lemon and the subtle heat of jalapeno, this sauce is perfect for elevating any dish.

Photos of Middle Eastern Lemon Pesto Sauce Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe may not be common in every pantry. Italian parsley is different from regular parsley and has a more robust flavor. Cashews add a creamy texture, while cumin, coriander, and paprika bring a warm, earthy depth to the sauce. Make sure to pick up these ingredients at your local supermarket.

Ingredients for Middle Eastern Lemon Pesto Sauce

Basil leaves: These fresh, aromatic leaves are the base of the pesto sauce, providing a sweet and peppery flavor.

Italian parsley: This herb adds a slightly bitter, fresh taste that complements the basil.

Garlic: Adds a pungent, spicy note to the pesto, enhancing its overall flavor.

Olive oil: Used to blend the ingredients into a smooth sauce, adding richness and a slight fruitiness.

Lemon: Provides a tangy, citrusy zing that brightens up the sauce.

Cumin: Offers a warm, earthy flavor that deepens the pesto's complexity.

Coriander: Adds a citrusy, slightly sweet note that pairs well with the lemon.

Paprika: Brings a mild heat and smokiness to the sauce.

Jalapeno: Adds a touch of heat and a fresh, green flavor to the pesto.

Cashews: Provide a creamy texture and a slight sweetness, balancing the acidity of the lemon.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the pesto, bringing everything together.

One reader, Ayn Muller says:

This Middle Eastern lemon pesto sauce is a delightful twist on a classic! The vibrant flavors of basil, parsley, and lemon blend perfectly with the spices. It's fresh, zesty, and absolutely delicious. Perfect for pasta, salads, or as a dip. Highly recommend!

Ayn Muller

Techniques Required for Making Middle Eastern Lemon Pesto Sauce

How to use a food processor: Place all ingredients in a food processor and puree until smooth.

How To Make Middle Eastern Lemon Pesto Sauce

Try this Middle Eastern lemon pesto sauce for your pasta or chicken and other meat dishes. Taste the flavors of basil, parsley, coriander, and jalapeños!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupsbasil leaves,sweet
1cupItalian parsley
2clovesgarlic
¼cupolive oil
2ozlemon,preserved, chopped
¼tspcumin,ground, toasted
1tspcoriander,ground, toasted
1tsppaprika
jalapeño,chopped
½cupcashews,toasted
½tspsalt

Instructions

Place all ingredients in a food processor and puree until smooth.
Taste and add salt if needed.
Serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

To store, refrigerate until ready to serve. It can last for up to 7 days in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Calories: 58.52kcal
Fat: 5.40g
Saturated Fat: 0.82g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.54g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.73g
Carbohydrates: 2.25g
Fiber: 0.52g
Sugar: 0.41g
Protein: 1.11g
Sodium: 43.50mg
Calcium: 15.19mg
Potassium: 70.23mg
Iron: 0.74mg
Vitamin A: 27.30µg
Vitamin C: 7.57mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Middle Eastern Lemon Pesto Sauce

To enhance the flavor of your pesto, lightly toast the cashews in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown. This will bring out their natural oils and add a deeper, nuttier flavor to your sauce.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Lemon Pesto Sauce

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-chopped garlic: Save time by using pre-chopped or minced garlic available in stores.

Opt for a high-speed blender: A high-speed blender can puree the sauce faster than a regular food processor.

Roast cashews ahead: If you prefer roasted cashews, roast them in bulk and store for future use.

Double the batch: Make a double batch of the pesto and freeze half for later use.

Substitute Ingredients For Middle Eastern Lemon Pesto Sauce Recipe

basil leaves - Substitute with cilantro leaves: Cilantro offers a fresh and slightly citrusy flavor that complements Middle Eastern dishes well.
italian parsley - Substitute with curly parsley: Curly parsley has a similar flavor profile and texture, making it a suitable replacement.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can balance the other strong spices in the recipe.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar texture and a neutral flavor that won't overpower the other ingredients.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a good alternative.
cumin - Substitute with caraway seeds: Caraway seeds have a slightly similar earthy flavor and can provide a unique twist.
coriander - Substitute with ground fennel seeds: Ground fennel seeds have a sweet and aromatic flavor that can mimic coriander.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper, smoky flavor that can enhance the overall taste.
jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers are slightly hotter but offer a similar fresh and spicy flavor.
cashews - Substitute with pine nuts: Pine nuts provide a creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor, similar to cashews.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a more complex flavor and can enhance the other ingredients better.

Best Way to Present Middle Eastern Lemon Pesto Sauce

Choose a pristine white plate: A clean, white plate will make the vibrant colors of the basil leaves, italian parsley, and lemon pop, creating a visually appealing contrast.
Create a base layer: Spread a thin layer of the lemon pesto sauce in a circular motion on the plate. This will act as the canvas for your dish.
Add texture with cashews: Lightly toast some extra cashews and scatter them around the sauce. This adds a delightful crunch and a touch of elegance.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Place a few whole basil leaves and sprigs of italian parsley on top of the sauce for a fresh, aromatic touch.
Incorporate a hint of heat: Thinly slice a jalapeno and arrange the slices artfully around the plate. This adds a pop of color and a subtle kick.
Drizzle with olive oil: Finish with a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavors and give the dish a glossy finish.
Add a citrus twist: Zest a bit of lemon over the top for an extra burst of citrus aroma and a touch of sophistication.
Season to perfection: Ensure the lemon pesto sauce is perfectly seasoned with salt, and adjust if necessary before serving.
Serve with complementary sides: Pair the dish with warm pita bread or grilled vegetables to complement the flavors and provide a complete dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Lemon Pesto Sauce

Food processor: Essential for blending all the ingredients into a smooth, cohesive sauce.
Measuring cups: Used to accurately measure the basil leaves, Italian parsley, olive oil, and cashews.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring out the cumin, coriander, paprika, and salt.
Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.
Citrus juicer: Useful for extracting juice from the lemon to ensure you get the full 2 ounces.
Chef's knife: Important for chopping the jalapeno and any other ingredients that need to be prepped.
Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for chopping the jalapeno and other ingredients.
Spatula: Helps in scraping down the sides of the food processor to ensure all ingredients are well blended.
Serving bowl: Ideal for presenting the finished lemon pesto sauce.

How To Store and Freeze Lemon Pesto Sauce

This middle eastern lemon pesto sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The olive oil may solidify in the fridge, but it will quickly return to its normal consistency when brought back to room temperature.
To freeze the pesto sauce, spoon it into an ice cube tray and place it in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer the pesto cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method allows you to easily portion out the sauce for future use. Frozen pesto can be stored for up to 3 months.
When ready to use the frozen pesto, simply thaw the desired amount in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. You can also add the frozen pesto cubes directly to warm pasta or other dishes, allowing them to melt and incorporate into the meal.
To prevent the pesto from browning due to oxidation, pour a thin layer of olive oil over the surface before sealing the container. This will help maintain its vibrant green color and fresh flavor.
If you find that the thawed pesto is too thick, you can easily adjust its consistency by stirring in a small amount of olive oil or lemon juice until it reaches the desired texture.

Is This Lemon Pesto Sauce Healthy or Unhealthy?

The middle eastern lemon pesto sauce recipe is a nutritious and flavorful condiment that packs a punch of healthy ingredients. The basil and parsley provide a good source of vitamins A and C, while the garlic offers antimicrobial properties. The olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, and the lemon adds a burst of vitamin C and antioxidants. The cashews contribute healthy fats, protein, and minerals like magnesium and zinc. The spices, including cumin, coriander, and paprika, not only add depth of flavor but also offer various health benefits such as anti-inflammatory properties and digestive support.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Increase the amount of basil and parsley for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals
Use a high-quality, cold-pressed olive oil to ensure maximum retention of its beneficial compounds
Add a handful of baby spinach leaves to the mix for an additional dose of iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants
Experiment with other nutrient-dense nuts like almonds or walnuts in place of cashews
Include the zest of the lemon for an extra burst of citrus flavor and antioxidants
Adjust the amount of jalapeno based on your spice preference, as capsaicin in peppers has been linked to various health benefits, including boosting metabolism and reducing inflammation

Editor's Thoughts on This Lemon Pesto Sauce Recipe

This Middle Eastern lemon pesto sauce recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. The combination of basil, Italian parsley, and cashews creates a rich, creamy base, while the lemon adds a refreshing zest. The spices—cumin, coriander, and paprika—infuse the sauce with a warm, aromatic depth. The jalapeno introduces a subtle heat that balances the overall profile. This versatile sauce can elevate a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables. A touch more salt might be needed to perfect the seasoning, but overall, it's a vibrant and flavorful addition to any culinary repertoire.

Enhance Your Middle Eastern Lemon Pesto Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roasted Vegetable Medley: Imagine a colorful array of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted to perfection. The caramelized edges and tender centers will complement the zesty notes of the Middle Eastern Lemon Pesto Sauce beautifully.

Grilled Lamb Skewers: Grilled Lamb Skewers: Juicy, marinated lamb skewers grilled to a smoky finish. The rich, savory flavors of the lamb will be elevated by the bright, citrusy pesto, creating a harmonious balance of tastes.

Quinoa Tabbouleh: Quinoa Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad featuring quinoa, tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh mint. The nutty quinoa and crisp vegetables will provide a delightful contrast to the creamy, herby pesto.

Stuffed Grape Leaves: Stuffed Grape Leaves: Tender grape leaves filled with a savory mixture of rice, pine nuts, and aromatic spices. The tangy pesto will add an extra layer of flavor to these delightful bites.

Spiced Chickpea Fritters: Spiced Chickpea Fritters: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these chickpea fritters are seasoned with a blend of spices. The pesto will serve as a perfect dipping sauce, enhancing the fritters' earthy flavors.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Middle Eastern Lemon Pesto Sauce

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Dive into the creamy goodness of this vegetable-packed dip. Blending roasted red peppers with chickpeas, garlic, and tahini, this hummus is perfect for spreading on pita or serving with fresh vegetables.

Spicy Harissa Chicken: Experience a burst of flavors with this meat dish. Marinate chicken in a fiery harissa sauce, then grill or bake to perfection. Serve with a side of couscous or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tabbouleh Salad: Refresh your palate with this vibrant vegetable and herb salad. Combining bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and a zesty lemon dressing, tabbouleh is a light and healthy option for any meal.

Lemon Tahini Dressing: Elevate your salads with this tangy and creamy dressing. Made with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of honey, this dressing pairs perfectly with greens and roasted vegetables.

Falafel Wraps: Enjoy the classic flavors of the Middle East with these vegetable-packed wraps. Crispy falafel balls are nestled in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of tahini sauce, making for a satisfying and portable meal.

Why trust this Middle Eastern Lemon Pesto Sauce Recipe:

This recipe combines the vibrant flavors of basil leaves, Italian parsley, and lemon to create a unique twist on traditional pesto. The addition of cumin, coriander, and paprika infuses it with a Middle Eastern flair, while cashews add a creamy texture. The use of fresh ingredients ensures a burst of flavor in every bite. Trust this recipe to elevate your dishes with its perfect balance of zest and spice.

Share your thoughts on the Middle Eastern Lemon Pesto Sauce Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any unique twists or variations to this zesty sauce!

FAQ:

How long does it take to make this lemon pesto sauce?

It usually takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare this lemon pesto sauce, including the time to gather and measure all the ingredients.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of cashews?

Absolutely! You can substitute cashews with pine nuts, almonds, or even walnuts if you prefer. Each will give a slightly different flavor and texture.

How spicy is this pesto sauce with the jalapeno?

The spiciness can vary depending on the jalapeno. If you're sensitive to heat, you can start with half a jalapeno and adjust to taste. Removing the seeds and ribs will also reduce the heat.

Can I make this pesto sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this pesto sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

What dishes pair well with this lemon pesto sauce?

This lemon pesto sauce pairs wonderfully with pasta, grilled chicken, fish, or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps. It also makes a great dip for veggies or pita bread.