Carrot top pesto? Yes, you read that right! While many of us toss aside the leafy greens atop our carrots, they're actually a surprisingly delicious and nutritious ingredient, packed with vitamins and minerals. This recipe transforms those often-discarded tops into a vibrant, nutty, and utterly delicious pesto that's perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a vibrant dip. It's a fantastic way to reduce food waste and add a unique flavor profile to your cooking.
What are Carrot Tops?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's address the elephant in the room: what exactly are carrot tops? They're the leafy green tops of the carrot plant, often discarded after harvesting. They possess a slightly peppery, earthy flavor that's quite different from the sweetness of the root itself. They're a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants. Don't let them go to waste!
Why Use Carrot Tops in Pesto?
Using carrot tops in pesto offers several benefits:
- Reduces Food Waste: It's a sustainable way to use the entire carrot, minimizing waste.
- Adds Nutritional Value: Carrot tops are packed with vitamins and nutrients.
- Unique Flavor Profile: The peppery, earthy notes of carrot tops add complexity to traditional pesto.
- Cost-Effective: You're essentially getting a free ingredient!
Carrot Top Pesto with Walnuts Recipe
This recipe makes approximately 1 cup of pesto.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups packed carrot greens, thoroughly washed and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: In a food processor, combine the carrot greens, walnuts, Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), and garlic.
- Pulse: Pulse until coarsely chopped.
- Stream in oil: With the food processor running, slowly stream in the olive oil until a smooth paste forms.
- Add lemon juice: Add the lemon juice and pulse to combine.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve or Store: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
How Long Does Carrot Top Pesto Last?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your carrot top pesto will last for about 3-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in ice cube trays or small containers for up to 3 months.
What Can I Use Carrot Top Pesto With?
The possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas:
- Pasta: Toss with your favorite pasta for a vibrant and flavorful meal.
- Sandwiches: Spread it on sandwiches or wraps for a unique twist.
- Pizza Topping: Use it as a flavorful pizza topping.
- Dip: Serve it with crusty bread or vegetables as a delicious dip.
- Salad Dressing: Whisk it into a salad dressing for an extra boost of flavor and nutrients.
Is it Safe to Eat Carrot Tops?
Yes, carrot tops are safe to eat, provided they are thoroughly washed to remove any dirt or pesticides. However, it's important to note that older, more mature carrot tops can be slightly more bitter than younger ones. Always choose fresh, vibrant-looking greens.
Are Carrot Greens Healthy?
Absolutely! Carrot greens are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as other essential minerals and antioxidants. They offer a range of health benefits, including boosting the immune system and promoting healthy vision.
This carrot top pesto recipe is a delicious and sustainable way to utilize the entire carrot, adding a unique flavor and nutritional boost to your dishes. Give it a try and impress your friends and family with this innovative and flavorful pesto!
