Jalapeno Pesto Recipe
Introduction
This vibrant Jalapeno Pesto adds a fresh, spicy kick to your favorite dishes. Made with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for elevating pasta, grilled chicken, or as a zesty dip.
Ingredients
- 1 jalapeno
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 1 cup cilantro
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (ground)
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a food processor, combine the jalapeno, pine nuts, cilantro, garlic, black pepper, and salt.
- Step 2: Pulse the ingredients a few times to begin chopping.
- Step 3: While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Step 4: Transfer the pesto to a container and serve with pasta, grilled chicken, or as desired.
Tips & Variations
- Remove seeds from the jalapeno for a milder pesto, or leave them in for more heat.
- Swap pine nuts with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra brightness before blending.
Storage
Store jalapeno pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To retain its color, pour a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing. Reheat gently or use it cold as a sauce or spread.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this pesto without a food processor?
While a food processor makes blending easier, you can finely chop all the ingredients by hand and then whisk in the olive oil to combine.
How spicy is this pesto?
The jalapeno adds a moderate heat that can be adjusted by removing the seeds or membrane. Taste as you go to match your spice preference.
PrintJalapeno Pesto Recipe
A vibrant and spicy Jalapeno Pesto made with fresh jalapeno, cilantro, pine nuts, and garlic, blended to perfection with extra virgin olive oil. This versatile sauce adds a zesty kick to pasta, grilled chicken, or as a flavorful dip.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 3/4 cup 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Jalapeno Pesto
- 1 jalapeno, stemmed and seeded for less heat if preferred
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Remove the stem and seeds from the jalapeno if you prefer a milder pesto. Peel the garlic clove and measure out pine nuts, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a food processor bowl, add the jalapeno, pine nuts, cilantro, garlic, and salt. Secure the lid tightly before processing.
- Pulse and Add Oil: Pulse the ingredients while slowly adding the extra virgin olive oil through the feed tube or opening, allowing the mixture to emulsify evenly.
- Blend to Desired Consistency: Continue processing until the pesto is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated, scraping down the sides if necessary for an even blend.
- Transfer and Serve: Spoon the jalapeno pesto into a container or bowl. It pairs wonderfully with pasta, grilled chicken, or as a dipping sauce. Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- For less heat, remove all seeds and veins from the jalapeno before blending.
- Toast pine nuts lightly beforehand for a richer flavor.
- This pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamier texture if desired (not included in this recipe).
- Great as a spread on sandwiches or mixed into salad dressings.
Keywords: jalapeno pesto, cilantro pesto, spicy pesto, jalapeno sauce, pesto recipe, sauce for pasta, grilled chicken sauce
