Asiago and almond pesto is a delicious and versatile sauce that can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes. It is made with a combination of savory asiago cheese, nutty almonds, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. The result is a rich and creamy pesto that can be used as a dip, spread, or sauce.
Benefits of using asiago and almond pesto:
1. Rich in Flavor: The blend of asiago cheese and almonds creates a unique flavor that is both savory and nutty. The fresh basil and garlic add a touch of freshness and spice to the mix, making it a perfect ingredient to add depth to your favorite dishes.
2. Versatile: Asiago and almond pesto can be used in many ways. It can be used as a dip for vegetables, spread on sandwiches or pizzas, or a sauce for pasta, chicken, or fish. It can even be mixed into soup or salad dressings for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Nutrient-rich: Almonds are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Additionally, the basil and garlic in the pesto are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
How to make asiago and almond pesto:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of basil leaves
- 1/2 cup of grated asiago cheese
- 1/4 cup of roasted almonds
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Start by toasting the almonds in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant. Then, let them cool.
2. In a blender or food processor, pulse the basil, garlic, and almonds until coarsely chopped.
3. Add the asiago cheese to the blender and pulse until well combined.
4. Gradually pour in the olive oil while blending until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pesto to a jar or container and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Ways to use asiago and almond pesto:
1. On pasta: Toss the pesto with your favorite pasta, add some grilled chicken or shrimp, and enjoy a quick and delicious meal.
2. As a spread: Spread the pesto on a sandwich or wrap to add some flavor and creaminess.
3. As a dip: Serve the pesto with veggies or crackers for a healthy snack or appetizer.
4. On pizza: Use the pesto as a sauce for your pizza instead of tomato sauce for a unique and flavorful twist.
5. As a marinade: Use the pesto as a marinade for chicken or fish for an extra burst of flavor.
In conclusion, asiago and almond pesto is a versatile and delicious sauce that can add flavor to a variety of dishes. It is easy to make and is a great source of nutrients. Try experimenting with different ways to use it for a quick and flavorful meal.
Asiago and almond pesto is a flavorful spread or sauce that can be used on a variety of dishes. The combination of the sharp and nutty flavor of Asiago cheese and the richness of almonds creates a unique taste that can enhance any meal. However, making pesto can be tricky, and you might end up with a lumpy and unappetizing sauce. To ensure that your asiago and almond pesto recipe turns out great every time, follow these valuable tips.
Tip 1: Choose Good Quality Ingredients
The key to a delicious asiago and almond pesto recipe is using good quality ingredients. Start by selecting high-quality Asiago cheese that is firm and aged to perfection. You can buy it in a block and shred it yourself or purchase it pre-shredded. Always choose almonds that are fresh and unsalted. Purchasing raw almonds that you toast yourself will give your pesto a better taste because it will be fresher.
Additionally, choose fresh and fragrant basil for a full flavour. This will give the pesto a fresh, fragrant aroma and a zesty flavor. Use quality garlic cloves, as this will add depth to the pesto. Choose to use extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
Tip 2: Toast the Almonds
One of the secrets of making good pesto is toasting the almonds before adding them to the mixture. Toasting brings out the natural oils and provides a robust flavor. Place the almonds on a baking sheet and roast them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes, until they are golden brown.
Tip 3: Don't Overprocess the Pesto
One of the mistakes people make when making pesto is overprocessing the ingredients. You want to blend or pulse the ingredients until the mixture is smooth but not liquid. Overprocessing it will make it runny and less appetizing. Additionally, when adding the oil, add it in stages since too much oil can also make it too runny.
Tip 4: Incorporate the Ingredients in Stages
To make sure you get the best flavour possible out of your asiago and almond pesto, you must include each ingredient in stages. Put the cheese, basil, garlic, and toasted almonds into the food processor or blender before slowly adding the olive oil. Blend until all the ingredients are blended and the mixture is smooth. Add the grated lemon zest, salt, and pepper to taste.
Tip 5: Use it in creative ways
Once you have made a batch of asiago and almond pesto, the creativity does not stop there. Unleash your creative side and pair the pesto with a variety of dishes. You can use it as a sandwich spread, toss it with hot pasta, and use it as a pizza topping. The possibilities are endless, and the pesto will add a new dimension of flavour to any dish you choose.
Tip 6: Store Properly
Storing your homemade asiago and almond pesto correctly is just as important as making it. Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. If you are not planning on using it immediately, you can preserve it by placing it in a freezer-safe container and freezing it for up to three months. You can also use an ice cube tray to freeze "pesto cubes" for future use.
In Conclusion
Making a great tasting asiago and almond pesto is not difficult. Use only high-quality ingredients and incorporate them in stages while pulsing just enough to blend the mixture. Toasting the almonds adds a robust flavor, and you may need to add the olive oil in stages. Finally, unleash the creativity when using your pesto. You can pair it with a variety of dishes and use it as a spread, topping or sauce. Remember to store your pesto properly, so you can enjoy it for longer. Once you have mastered this recipe, you can impress anyone with this delicious, unique, and flavourful asiago and almond pesto.
