Green Garlic To Rocket: 6 Unique Pesto Variations

Pesto is a popular Italian sauce known for its vibrant green colour and earthy flavour. It has a rich history tied to the Liguria region of northern Italy. The concept of pounding herbs and nuts into a paste with olive oil has ancient roots in Mediterranean cuisine. The ancient Romans, for example, made a similar sauce called "moretum," which consisted of garlic, herbs, cheese, and olive oil.

However, the modern pesto we know today is specifically associated with the Ligurian region of Italy. The word "pesto" itself comes from the Italian word "pestare," which means "to crush" or "to pound". Traditional Ligurian pesto, known as "Pesto alla Genovese," is believed to have originated in Genoa, the capital of Liguria, as early as the 16th century. 

The ancient traditional recipe for pesto, known as Pesto alla Genovese, is a blend of fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino cheese, extra-virgin olive oil, and a pinch of coarse sea salt. These ingredients are meticulously combined by crushing and grinding them together in a mortar and pestle, producing a fragrant, vibrant green paste.

The basil provides a refreshing herbaceous note, while the garlic infuses a sharp, pungent flavour, and the pine nuts contribute a subtle nuttiness. The cheeses add creaminess and a touch of saltiness, while the olive oil binds everything together, creating a velvety texture. This ancient preparation method, which requires patience and precision, yields a sauce that captures the essence of Italian cuisine and continues to be cherished for its simplicity and unmatched flavour. 

Initially prepared using a mortar and pestle, the sauce underwent significant changes with the advent of modern kitchen appliances, such as food processors and blenders, making it more accessible to cooks around the world. This evolution facilitated the global spread of pesto and inspired numerous variations, including sun-dried tomato, spinach, and walnut pesto.

In recognition of its unique regional heritage, Pesto alla Genovese was granted Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status in 2008, preserving its authenticity and ensuring that the traditional recipe remains a cherished part of Italian culinary heritage while also serving as an inspiration for culinary creativity worldwide. 

Green Garlic Pesto 

Green garlic pesto is a vibrant and aromatic sauce made from young, tender garlic shoots or scapes, offering a milder and fresher garlic flavour compared to mature bulbs. To prepare it, blend a cup of chopped green garlic shoots with toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, a touch of lemon juice for brightness, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

The resulting pesto is a versatile condiment with a gentle garlic kick, perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or using as a flavourful marinade for grilled vegetables and meats. Green garlic pesto celebrates the early spring harvest and provides a unique twist on traditional basil-based pesto. 

Spinach Pesto  

Spinach pesto is a delightful variation of traditional pesto, characterised by its vibrant green colour and mild, earthy flavour. Made by blending fresh spinach leaves with garlic, toasted pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, it's a lighter and more delicate alternative to basil-based pesto. Spinach pesto's milder taste makes it a crowd-pleaser, appealing to those who may find basil's flavour too intense. It's a great way to sneak extra greens into your diet, and it pairs beautifully with pasta, sandwiches, salads, or as a dip. Spinach pesto offers both a burst of colour and a nutritious boost to your meals, making it a special addition to any kitchen. 

Kale Pesto  

Kale pesto stands out due to its health-conscious and earthy profile. By replacing basil with nutrient-packed kale leaves, it offers a pesto variation that's rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Kale's robust flavour adds depth to the sauce, and its vibrant green hue makes for an eye-catching presentation

Blended with toasted nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, kale pesto maintains the creamy, textured consistency of traditional pesto while introducing a slightly bitter and earthy undertone. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a wholesome twist on a classic sauce, with the added benefit of kale's exceptional nutritional value. Kale pesto pairs wonderfully with whole-grain pasta, roasted vegetables, or as a wholesome dip or spread. 

Broccoli Pesto  

Broccoli pesto is a unique and nutritious twist on traditional pesto that transforms broccoli florets into a creamy sauce by blending them with garlic, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. What sets it apart is its exceptional health benefits; broccoli is packed with vitamins, fibre, and antioxidants, making this pesto a powerhouse of nutrients.

Additionally, it offers a wonderful way to incorporate more broccoli into your diet, especially for those who may not be big fans of traditional basil pesto. Broccoli pesto is a versatile condiment that can be enjoyed on pasta, spread on sandwiches, or used as a dip, adding a wholesome and flavourful element to your dishes. 

Cilantro Pesto  

Cilantro pesto is a distinctive and vibrant condiment that stands out for its fresh and zesty flavour. Made by blending cilantro leaves with garlic, roasted peanuts or almonds, Cotija or feta cheese, olive oil, and sometimes a squeeze of lime juice, it offers a unique twist on traditional pesto. What makes cilantro pesto special is its bright, citrusy notes and the subtle nuttiness of the peanuts or almonds.

It adds a burst of bold, Southwestern-inspired flavours to your dishes, making it perfect for Mexican or Tex-Mex-inspired meals. Cilantro pesto can be used to enhance tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or simply drizzled over roasted vegetables, giving your dishes a fresh and zesty kick that's sure to delight your taste buds. 

Rocket Pesto  

Rocket pesto, also known as arugula pesto, is a unique variation of traditional pesto celebrated for its bold and peppery flavour. It incorporates fresh arugula leaves, garlic, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and extra-virgin olive oil. What sets rocket pesto apart is its distinctive taste, which is both spicy and slightly bitter, adding complexity to your dishes.

The peppery notes of arugula can transform a simple pasta dish or sandwich into a gourmet experience. Its vibrant green colour and intense flavour profile make rocket pesto a fantastic choice for those seeking a more robust and adventurous twist on classic pesto, creating dishes that are both visually appealing and packed with flavour. 

Spinach Pesto Recipe 

Ingredients:  

  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves (washed and dried)
  • 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Method:  

  • In a food processor, combine the fresh spinach, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. 
  • Pulse the ingredients a few times to start breaking them down. 
  • With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil until the mixture reaches your desired consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the processor bowl and blend a bit more. 
  • Season the spinach pesto with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed. 
  • Transfer the spinach pesto to a jar or airtight container. You can use it immediately or store it in the refrigerator for a few days.