Cinnamon 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 deepens their nuttiness and gives the whole spread a warm, almost buttery richness. A squeeze of fresh lemon and a hit of garlic keep things bright, while cumin and turmeric add just enough depth to make every bite interesting. The food processor does the heavy lifting, leaving you with a texture that's creamy but still has some character — smooth enough to scoop, sturdy enough to hold up on a cracker. For anyone navigating spice sensitivities, this recipe is a great example of how bold, satisfying flavor doesn't require the usual warming spice blends that so often sneak cinnamon into savory dishes. Pile it into a bowl, drizzle with good olive oil, and surround it with crisp vegetables or your favorite gluten-free crackers for a spread that works as an appetizer, snack, or light lunch.
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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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