Spinach & Walnut Pesto
A creamy, nutty twist on pesto using fresh spinach and toasted walnuts for a rich, earthy flavor. This italian-inspired vegetarian (vegan (optional)) ready in about 20 minutes blends (packed) Fresh spinach, medium (minced) Garlic cloves, Extra virgin olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups (packed) Fresh spinach
- 2 medium (minced) Garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup (grated) Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup (chopped) Walnuts
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: In a food processor, combine spinach, garlic, and lemon juice. Pulse until spinach is finely chopped.
- Step 2: With the motor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
- Step 3: Add Parmesan and walnuts. Process until well combined and slightly chunky, about 2 minutes.
- Step 4: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Spinach & Walnut Pesto take to make?
Total time is about 20 minutes (20 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Spinach & Walnut Pesto?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Spinach & Walnut Pesto?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Spinach & Walnut Pesto for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Spinach & Walnut Pesto vegan (optional)?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan (optional) based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★☆
Enjoyable meal. Instructions could be a touch more detailed on the timing.
- ★★★★☆
Tasty recipe. I'd add a bit more seasoning next time.
- ★★☆☆☆
Didn't come together the way I expected. Flavors were flat.
