Almond Free Walnut Pesto Lentil Spread
This earthy, herbaceous spread brings together tender cooked lentils and a fragrant walnut-basil pesto into something that feels far more special than the sum of its parts. Toasting the walnuts before blending is a small step that pays off big — it draws out a deep, nutty richness that anchors the bright lemon juice and fresh basil beautifully. A pinch of cumin and turmeric woven into the pesto base adds just enough warmth to keep every bite interesting without overwhelming the green, garden-fresh flavor. The food processor does the heavy lifting, leaving you with a spread that's mostly smooth but still has enough body and texture to scoop satisfyingly onto a cracker or a crisp slice of cucumber. Because every ingredient here is whole and straightforward, there's no need to scrutinize labels for hidden tree nut blends or shared-facility warnings — walnuts are the only nut in the mix, and they're called out clearly. It works equally well as a party dip, a sandwich spread, or an easy weeknight snack board centerpiece. Finish it with a generous drizzle of olive oil and a scatter of fresh parsley, and it looks like something you'd order at a restaurant.
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Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
For the lentils
- ¾ cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- ¼ tsp salt
For the pesto-walnut base
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- ¾ cup raw walnuts
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt, or to taste
For serving
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, roughly chopped (optional)
- sliced vegetables or gluten free crackers, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the rinsed lentils, water, and 1/4 tsp salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a steady simmer and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the lentils are completely tender and have absorbed most of the water.
- 2
Drain any remaining liquid through a fine-mesh strainer and spread the lentils on a plate or sheet pan. Let them cool for 10 minutes until no longer steaming.
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