Spring Pesto Magic: Delicate Dishes Featuring Minnesota’s Arugula and Basil

Hey there, food lovers! 🌸 The snow is melting, the birds are chirping, and our local Minnesota markets are brimming with fresh, green goodness. What better way to celebrate spring than with a homemade pesto featuring our very own Minnesota-grown arugula and basil? This vibrant and zesty pesto recipe is bursting with flavor and so versatile! Trust me, you're going to want to slather it on everything.

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh Minnesota arugula
1 cup fresh Minnesota basil leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup toasted pine nuts
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Start by giving your arugula and basil a good rinse. Pat them dry with a paper towel or let them air dry.
In a food processor, combine the arugula, basil, grated Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse a few times to break everything down.
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Continue to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Squeeze in the juice of one lemon for that extra zing. Blend for a few more seconds.
Season your pesto with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last whirl to make sure everything is well-mixed.
Transfer your pesto to a jar or an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to a week (if it lasts that long!).

Serving Suggestions:

This pesto is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Pasta: Toss it with warm pasta for a quick and delicious meal.
Sandwiches: Spread it on your favorite sandwich or wrap for a burst of flavor.
Dip: Serve it as a dip with fresh veggies or crusty bread at your next spring gathering.
Grilled Veggies: Drizzle it over grilled veggies for an extra flavor kick.

So there you have it, a simple and fresh pesto recipe that’s sure to stir delight in your Minnesota kitchen this spring. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below. Happy cooking! 🌿💚