Hazelnut Free Basil-Pesto Cucumber Melon Salad
This bright, refreshing salad is the kind of dish that makes summer feel effortless — juicy melon and cool cucumber tossed in a vivid, herb-forward pesto that you blend right in the food processor. Traditional pesto recipes often call for pine nuts or, more commonly, hazelnuts as a budget-friendly swap, which can make store-bought versions a real minefield if you're avoiding tree nuts. Here, the sauce skips nuts entirely and leans on packed fresh basil, parsley, garlic, and a generous pour of extra-virgin olive oil to build that same lush, creamy coating without any compromise. A touch of lemon juice, lemon zest, and ground turmeric round out the flavor with brightness and a subtle warmth that makes this pesto genuinely interesting on its own. The melon and cucumber soak up the dressing beautifully after a short rest in the fridge, so every bite is fragrant and well-seasoned. Torn fresh mint scattered over the top right before serving adds one last layer of cool, aromatic freshness. It works as a light starter, a side at a backyard cookout, or an easy lunch that comes together with minimal effort and zero stress.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the pesto
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ tsp lemon zest
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
For the salad
- 3 cups cantaloupe or honeydew melon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups english cucumber, halved lengthwise and sliced ¼-inch thick
- 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, torn (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the basil, parsley, and garlic in a food processor and pulse 8–10 times until coarsely chopped.
- 2
With the processor running, drizzle in the olive oil in a slow, steady stream until the mixture is smooth and bright green, about 30 seconds. Scrape down the sides, then add the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and turmeric. Pulse 3–4 more times until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust salt.
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