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Jalapeno Pesto Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 52 reviews

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.

Ingredients

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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

  1. 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.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a food processor bowl, add the jalapeno, pine nuts, cilantro, garlic, and salt. Secure the lid tightly before processing.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

Find it online: https://servedbynora.com/jalapeno-pesto-recipe/