Celery Free Walnut Pesto Lentil Spread

Total time50 min

Prep time15 min

Cook time25 min

5.0

(21)

This spread is earthy, herby, and deeply satisfying — the kind of thing you'll want to keep in the fridge at all times for snacking, spreading, or scooping. Toasted walnuts bring a rich, nutty depth to the pesto base, while fresh basil, lemon juice, and a touch of cumin and turmeric give it a brightness that feels anything but ordinary. The lentils are simmered until completely tender, then blended in just enough to create a spread that's smooth but still has a little body to it. What makes this recipe so easy to trust is that every single ingredient is whole and straightforward — no packaged seasonings, no mystery blends, no hidden fillers that could sneak in unwanted extras. For anyone navigating food sensitivities, that kind of ingredient transparency is genuinely refreshing. Pile it onto gluten-free crackers or serve it alongside sliced vegetables for a snack that looks impressive but comes together with minimal effort. It's the kind of plant-based recipe that earns a permanent spot in your rotation.

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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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