This olive and pine nut pesto is so good that I can just eat it with a spoon. Since, unlike fresh basil pesto, it’s prepared with pantry ingredients, you can make it year-round. Toss it with spaghetti or spread it on toast. Chop the ingredients carefully. For the best texture, don’t puree it to a paste.

Winter Pesto is a delightful twist on traditional pesto, utilizing ingredients that are in season during the winter months. This variation offers a unique and vibrant flavor profile that brings a taste of freshness and brightness to cold winter days.

While traditional pesto typically features basil as the main herb, Winter Pesto incorporates other seasonal ingredients to create a refreshing and aromatic sauce. The base of this pesto begins with lightly toasted pine nuts, which add a rich and nutty flavor to the mixture.

Winter Pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in a covered container. However, it is best enjoyed fresh at room temperature to fully appreciate its vibrant flavors.

This versatile pesto can be used in a variety of ways. It can be spread on toasted bread, tossed with pasta, used as a sauce for roasted vegetables, or incorporated into marinades and dressings. Its unique combination of flavors adds a delightful twist to winter dishes, bringing a taste of freshness and brightness to your culinary creations.

Makes 1 cup

INGREDIENTS

• ¼ cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• ¾ cup pitted imported black olives, such as Gaeta
• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and patted dry
• Pinch of crushed red pepper
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a food processor, coarsely chop the pine nuts and parsley.
2. Add the olives and capers to the food processor and chop until fine.
3. Add the crushed red pepper and olive oil to the mixture.
4. Pulse the ingredients in the food processor to mix them well.
5. Let the pesto stand for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. If not serving immediately, the pesto can be refrigerated in a covered container for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving.

Enjoy the delicious and flavorful olive and caper pesto with your favorite dishes. It can be used as a spread, sauce, or condiment to add a zesty and savory kick to your meals.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

1. Pasta: Toss the Winter Pesto with your favorite cooked pasta, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti. The combination of the nutty pine nuts, aromatic parsley, and tangy olives will elevate your pasta dish to new heights. Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of richness.
2. Crostini: Spread the Winter Pesto on toasted baguette slices to create delicious and vibrant crostini. It adds a unique twist to traditional bruschetta, providing a burst of flavor with each bite. Top it with sliced cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of freshly grated lemon zest for added freshness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Use the Winter Pesto as a flavorful dressing for roasted vegetables. Toss it with roasted Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, or carrots to add a zesty and herbaceous kick to your winter veggie side dishes.
4. Grilled Meats: Brush the Winter Pesto onto grilled chicken, steak, or fish fillets to enhance their flavors. The combination of the savory olives and tangy capers pairs beautifully with the charred and smoky notes from the grill.
5. Sandwiches and Wraps: Spread the Winter Pesto on sandwiches or wraps to add a burst of flavor. It works particularly well with roasted turkey, grilled vegetables, or even as a condiment for a gourmet burger.
6. Winter Salad Dressing: Use the Winter Pesto as a unique and refreshing dressing for winter salads. Toss it with mixed greens, roasted beets, goat cheese, and toasted walnuts for a flavorful and satisfying salad.
7. Dip or Spread: Serve the Winter Pesto as a dip or spread alongside crusty bread, crackers, or vegetable crudité. It makes for a delicious and unexpected appetizer that will impress your guests.

Feel free to get creative and experiment with other dishes where you think the Winter Pesto will shine. Its unique combination of flavors adds a delightful twist to winter recipes, bringing a taste of freshness and brightness to your meals. Enjoy the versatility and vibrant flavors of Winter Pesto in your culinary adventures!