Cashews, with their kidney shape and delicately sweet flavour, have always been popular as healthy snacks. But did you know that these small dried fruits can become the undisputed protagonists of creative and tasty dishes? Today we want to celebrate their versatility by focusing on a revisited classic of Italian cuisine: pesto.
Why cashews in pesto?
If you have ever tried traditional pesto alla Genovese, you will know how intense its flavour is, thanks to the pine nuts. Cashews, on the other hand, offer a more delicate and creamy note, perfect for those looking for a pesto with a more balanced taste. In addition, they are rich in essential nutrients such as protein, fibre and good fats, making this pesto a condiment that is not only tasty, but also nutritious.
A whole new pesto
Preparing cashew nut pesto is child's play. Its simplicity allows you to enjoy a fresh, homemade condiment in a matter of minutes. And the best thing? You can customise it to your liking, adding other ingredients such as vegan Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes or a pinch of chilli.
The cashew pesto recipe
Ingredients:
- 40 g unsalted cashews
- 80 g fresh basil
- 1 clove of garlic (optional)
- 150 ml of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
Preparation:
Start by thoroughly washing and drying the basil leaves. Next, pour the basil, cashews and, if desired, garlic into the glass of your blender. Blend at low speed until a coarse mixture is obtained. At this point, start adding the extra virgin olive oil in a trickle, continuing to blend until the desired consistency is reached. Taste and add salt to taste.
How to use cashew nut pesto
Cashew nut pesto is an extremely versatile condiment. You can use it to season pasta, fill sandwiches and sandwiches, or spread it on crispy bruschetta. It is also perfect for enriching risottos, soups and creams. Furthermore, you can freeze it in individual portions to have it always at hand.
Conclusions
Cashews are a valuable ingredient for vegan and vegetarian cooking, but not only. Their versatility makes them suitable for everyone's palate. Cashew nut pesto is just one of the many recipes you can make with these delicious dried fruits. Experiment, have fun and discover a world of new flavours.
Choose the best ingredients to make this fantastic recipe with our selection at the link below:
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