Plant-Based Recipe: Savory Artichoke Pesto

Artichoke Pesto, Capers, Heirloom Tomatoes, 
Olives  & French Radishes Crostini

Artichoke Pesto with  Crusty Seeded Baguette

Artichoke Pesto in a Jar as a gift

Savory Artichoke Pesto in Food Processor

You'll love making and enjoying this Savory Artichoke Pesto—it’s the ultimate versatile kitchen staple! Elevate everything from pasta, risotto, polenta and soups to pizza, paninis, crepes, and veggie tarts. Perfect for entertaining, it pairs beautifully with crostini, crackers, and flatbreads topped with olives, capers, and fresh greens.

Savory Artichoke Pesto 

Prep time: 15 mins
Yields: Approx. 1.5  cups

Ingredients:

1 cup Almond slivers (lightly toasted)
1 bunch fresh cilantro (stems removed, roughly chopped)
2 Garlic cloves, peeled
1 jar (6.5 - 8 oz.) marinated artichoke hearts, drained well
1 Meyer lemon, juiced and zested
1/2 cup plant-based grated Parmesan cheese (Optional, for savory depth)
1/3  cup high-quality olive oil
1/2 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)

Optional: 1/2 tbsp. capers (for extra tangy bite) 

Instructions:

Prep: Toast almond slivers in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.

Drain & Dry: Thoroughly drain the artichoke hearts and press them in a colander to remove excess oil/brine.

Process Base: In a food processor, combine the artichoke hearts, capers, toasted almonds, garlic,  cilantro, lemon juice and sea salt. Pulse until coarsely chopped.

Emulsify: With the processor running on low, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is combined but still has texture. Next, add the Parmesan cheese and lemon zest. Pulse 3-4 times to incorporate, keeping it chunky rather than puréed.

Adjust: Taste and add more salt or lemon if needed.

Store: Transfer to a jar and top with a thin layer of olive oil to keep it green. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

This wonderful pesto makes a delicious foodie gift that everyone will love!  

Chef Ellie Lavender 
Plant-Based Mediterranean Personal Chef
Culinary & Wine Pairing Instructor
Event Caterer
Lavender Design + Cuisine

 

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