Macadamia Free Walnut Pesto Lentil Spread
This earthy, vibrant spread layers the brightness of fresh basil pesto with the hearty depth of simmered lentils, landing somewhere between a dip and a schmear that works beautifully on crackers, crudités, or a thick slice of bread. Toasting the walnuts before blending is the quiet hero of the whole recipe — just a few minutes in a dry skillet coaxes out a rich, nutty aroma that carries through every bite. A pinch of cumin and turmeric adds warmth without overpowering the fresh lemon and garlic, giving the spread a complexity that feels way more impressive than the effort involved. The lentils bring protein and body, so this holds up as a satisfying snack or appetizer rather than just a light condiment. Because every ingredient here is straightforward and whole, you never have to second-guess what's in it or worry about surprise additions that don't fit your needs. A final drizzle of good olive oil and a scatter of fresh parsley makes it look genuinely beautiful on the table, which is always a bonus when you're feeding a crowd.
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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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