Red Chicory and Walnut Pesto

Red Chicory and Walnut Pesto
This pesto is a refined Venetian take on classic pasta sauces, combining the rich texture of walnuts with the distinctive bittersweet flavor of red chicory. Inspired by the agricultural heritage of the Treviso area, this recipe transforms a prized winter vegetable into a versatile, vibrant-colored cream with a rich, rounded taste. Perfect for those seeking a balance between rustic flavors and contemporary elegance, this pesto brings the warmth and authenticity of homemade Northern Italian cuisine to the table
Yield: 6 servings
Total time: 15 min
Preparation time: 15 min
Difficulty:
Cost:
Tools: Bowl, Blender
Weight per serving: 80 g
Energy: 350 Kcal
Carbohydrates: 1 g
Fats: 35 g
Proteins: 8 g
Golf: 1 h 15 min
Allergens: Milk, Tree nuts
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-free
Pairing: Barolo
Occasion: Family dinner

Ingredients

Portions for 6 servings
6
150 g
100 g
to taste

Method

It takes 4 steps in 15 min
1 Red Chicory and Walnut Pesto - step 1
Wash the red chicory thoroughly and dry it completely
2 Red Chicory and Walnut Pesto - step 2
Finely chop the walnuts and Parmigiano Reggiano in a blender, then set aside
3 Red Chicory and Walnut Pesto - step 3
Place the extra-virgin olive oil and red chicory in the immersion blender container and blend until smooth
4 Red Chicory and Walnut Pesto - step 4
Add the chopped walnuts and Parmigiano Reggiano to the container. Blend until everything is well combined, then taste and adjust the salt as needed

Storage

Store the red chicory and walnut pesto in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days, making sure to cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil. It can also be frozen for about one month, preferably in convenient single-serving portions.

Cost

This recipe uses ingredients such as walnuts and Parmigiano Reggiano, which can increase the overall cost. It falls into the mid-range price category: affordable for most budgets, but not among the cheapest options

Health

Red chicory provides fiber and naturally occurring plant compounds, while walnuts contribute unsaturated fats. Extra-virgin olive oil also provides unsaturated fats, and Parmigiano Reggiano adds protein and calcium. Since walnuts, oil, and cheese are energy-dense ingredients, moderate portions can help keep the meal balanced
Luca Mingardi
Author Editorial staff - Luca M.
5.0
Rate
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