Arugula and Sunflower Seed Pesto: Budget Friendly Recipe

Introducing this wallet-friendly twist on the classic pesto recipe! My easy budget-friendly pesto is a delightful blend of vibrant arugula and sunflower seeds, providing a delicious alternative to the traditional basil and pine nut combination that can often break the bank.

Why This Pesto Recipe Works

Arugula, with its peppery kick and slightly bitter flavor, adds a unique twist to this pesto, providing a refreshing and vibrant taste. It’s also a great way to use up any excess arugula you may have on hand. As for the sunflower seeds, they offer a perfect substitution for the typically expensive pine nuts, without compromising on taste or texture.

This recipe not only saves you money but also introduces a fresh and exciting variation to your culinary repertoire. It’s a win-win situation for your taste buds and your budget!

You might also love this Easy Oregano Pesto

What is Pesto

Pesto is a vibrant and flavorful Italian sauce that originates from the region of Liguria. It is traditionally made by combining fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese, and extra-virgin olive oil. These ingredients are blended together to create a smooth and aromatic sauce.

Pesto is known for its distinct and vibrant green color, herbaceous aroma, and rich, savory taste. It is incredibly versatile and can be used as a pasta sauce, spread, dip, or condiment to enhance a wide range of dishes. Pesto is a celebration of fresh ingredients and the harmonious combination of flavors that capture the essence of Italian cuisine.

The Difference Between Basil and Arugula Pesto

Basil pesto and arugula pesto are two distinct variations of pesto that differ in terms of flavor, aroma, and overall profile. Here are some key differences between basil and arugula pesto:

• Flavor: Basil pesto has a classic, sweet, and herbaceous flavor. It features the distinctive taste of basil leaves, which are slightly peppery with hints of mint and cloves. On the other hand, arugula pesto has a more assertive and peppery flavor. Arugula leaves bring a slightly bitter, nutty, and spicy taste to the pesto.
• Aroma: Basil pesto is known for its strong and aromatic scent, which is often associated with Italian cuisine. It releases a fresh and fragrant aroma with floral and herbal notes. Arugula pesto, while still aromatic, has a more pungent and earthy aroma, often described as a combination of peppery greens and nuttiness.
• Color: Basil pesto is typically bright green, thanks to the vibrant color of the basil leaves. Arugula pesto, on the other hand, tends to be a darker green due to the deeper hues of arugula leaves. However, the shade of green can vary depending on factors such as the amount of arugula used and the presence of other ingredients.
• Texture: Both pestos generally have a smooth and creamy texture, but the texture of arugula pesto may be slightly coarser due to the fibrous nature of arugula leaves. The texture can also vary based on personal preference and the specific recipe used.

Ultimately, the choice between basil pesto and arugula pesto depends on personal taste preferences and the desired flavor profile for a particular dish. Both variations offer unique and delicious ways to elevate your culinary creations and recipes.

What to Do with Arugula Pesto

Arugula pesto can be used in a variety of delicious ways. Here are some ideas on how to use arugula pesto in your culinary creations:

1. Pasta sauce: Toss cooked pasta with arugula pesto for a quick and flavorful pesto pasta dish. The peppery and nutty flavors of the pesto pair well with different pasta shapes. Add some cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or sautéed vegetables to enhance the dish further. I even look sneaking some pesto into my Marinara Sauce! It really adds such a lovely layer of flavor. Suggested: Try this decadent Pesto Mac & Cheese recipe!
2. Pizza topping: Spread a generous amount of arugula pesto onto your pizza crust as an alternative to traditional tomato sauce. Top with mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and any other desired toppings. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted for a unique and tasty pizza experience. Suggested: Pesto Pizza via Sally’s Baking Addiction.
3. Sandwich spread: Use arugula pesto as a spread for sandwiches and wraps. It adds a burst of flavor to your favorite fillings like grilled vegetables, roasted turkey, chicken, or even a simple Caprese Sandwich with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes. Find that recipe here!
4. Bruschetta or crostini: Spread arugula pesto on toasted bread slices and top with fresh tomatoes, shaved Parmesan, or a slice of prosciutto for an appetizer or snack that’s full of vibrant flavors. Suggested: Pesto Crostini Recipe via Cooking Chat.
5. Salad dressing: Combine arugula pesto with some additional lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey to create a zesty and unique salad dressing. Drizzle it over mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or even a pasta salad for an extra punch of flavor. Suggested: Pesto Vinaigrette via FoolProof Living.
6. Roasted vegetables: Toss roasted vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or zucchini with arugula pesto after they come out of the oven. The pesto will add a delicious coating and elevate the flavors of the vegetables. Suggested: You’ll love these Crispy Potatoes Tossed in Pesto. Find the easy recipe here!
7. Grilled meats and seafood: Use arugula pesto as a marinade or finishing sauce for grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork chops. It also pairs well with grilled seafood such as shrimp or salmon.
8. Dip or spread: Serve arugula pesto as a dip alongside breadsticks, crackers, or fresh vegetables. It makes for a tasty and vibrant appetizer or snack.

Remember, arugula pesto is versatile, so feel free to get creative and use it in any recipe where you would typically use traditional basil pesto. Enjoy exploring the unique flavors of arugula pesto in your culinary adventures!

Does Arugula Pesto Turn Brown?

Arugula pesto, like most pesto sauces, can turn slightly brown over time due to oxidation. However, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the browning and maintain its vibrant green color:

1. Blanche the arugula: Before blending the arugula, blanch it in boiling water for a brief moment, then transfer it to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. This step helps preserve the green color and slows down oxidation.
2. Quick blending: Blend the ingredients quickly and avoid overprocessing. Prolonged blending can introduce more air and increase the chances of oxidation.
3. Lemon juice: Add a splash of lemon juice to the pesto. Lemon juice helps to maintain the color of the arugula by reducing oxidation.

How to Store Arugula Pesto

When storing arugula pesto, cover the surface of the pesto with a thin layer of olive oil to create a protective barrier against air. This can help slow down the browning process. Additionally, storing the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator can help maintain its color for a longer period.

Can I Freeze Arugula Pesto

Yes, you can freeze arugula pesto! Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of your pesto and enjoy it at a later time. Here’s how you can freeze arugula pesto:

1. Prepare the pesto: Follow your preferred arugula pesto recipe and blend all the ingredients until smooth.
2. Portion the pesto: Divide the pesto into individual portions or into ice cube trays. This makes it easier to thaw and use only the amount you need without defrosting the entire batch.
3. Package and seal: Transfer the pesto portions into freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
4. Label and date: Write the name of the pesto and the date of freezing on the containers or bags. This will help you keep track of its freshness.
5. Freeze: Place the pesto in the freezer and make sure it is stored in a flat position until fully frozen. This helps maintain the portion sizes and makes it easier to stack or store in limited freezer space.

Arugula pesto can generally be stored in the freezer for up to 3 to 4 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw the desired amount in the refrigerator overnight or place the container in a bowl of lukewarm water to speed up the thawing process. Once thawed, give it a good stir, and it should be ready to use.

Ingredients for Arugula Pesto

To make a delicious arugula pesto, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh arugula leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted sunflower seeds
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Arugula Pesto

To prepare this budget-friendly pesto, simply combine a generous amount of arugula, toasted sunflower seeds, garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, a splash of lemon juice, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil in a food processor. Blend until smooth, and voilà! You have a delectable pesto sauce ready to elevate any dish.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, spreading it on sandwiches, or using it as a flavorful topping for grilled meats or roasted vegetables, this arugula and sunflower seed pesto is sure to impress. So go ahead, indulge in this affordable and delicious pesto, and let your taste buds rejoice without straining your budget!