Why Make Pesto at Home?
Forget store-bought—homemade pesto is fresher, more flavorful, and endlessly customizable. This Parsley-Pumpkin Seed Pesto is nutty, vibrant, and packed with umami from Grana Padano cheese. It’s perfect on pasta, rice, sandwiches, grilled meats, or even as a marinade. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge, making it an easy way to add a punch of flavor to any dish.
Parsley-Pumpkin Seed Pesto Recipe
Ingredients (Makes about ¾ cup):
- 1 clove garlic (7g), cut into 2-3 pieces
- ¼ tsp sea salt, plus more for garnish
- ¼ cup (30g) pumpkin seeds
- ⅓ cup (40g) grated Parmesan cheese (we used Grana Padano)
- ½ bunch (40g) Italian Flat-Leaf Parsley, leaves only
- 3-4 tbsp olive oil, plus more for drizzling
Instructions:
- Using a mortar and pestle or a small food processor, start by grinding the garlic, salt, pumpkin seeds, and Parmesan cheese until coarsely chopped.
- Add in the parsley and continue pounding or pulsing until well combined.
- Scrape out the pesto with a spatula and stir in the olive oil by hand—this is key! Do not process the olive oil, as it can turn bitter.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt if needed.
- Store in an airtight container, topping with a thin layer of olive oil to preserve color and freshness.
💡 Storage Tip: Keeps in the fridge for 7-10 days. Freeze for longer storage.
Variations & Substitutions
🌿 Swap the Parsley: Use fresh basil for a classic pesto flavor.
🌰 Swap the Nuts: Replace pumpkin seeds with pine nuts for a richer, traditional taste.
🍋 Brighten It Up: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy kick—perfect for marinades!
Cook With Us!
Like this recipe? You should try cooking with us! Start with an on-demand pre-recorded class, or jump in to the best experience with our live classes!
How to Use This Pesto
✔ Tossed with pasta or rice for a simple, flavorful meal.
✔ Spread on sandwiches or wraps for an herby boost.
✔ Dolloped onto grilled meats or fish for a fresh, nutty contrast.
✔ Mixed with mayo or yogurt for a creamy, pesto-style dip.
✔ Drizzled over roasted vegetables for extra depth of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Pesto
✔ No preservatives—just fresh ingredients.
✔ Quick & easy—ready in minutes!
✔ Packed with flavor—nutty, garlicky, and savory.
✔ Versatile—use it in countless ways!
