Turkey Free Walnut Pesto Lentil Spread
This earthy, vibrant spread brings together tender simmered 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 richness and gives the whole spread a warm, nutty backbone that pairs beautifully with the bright hit of lemon and fresh basil. A pinch of cumin and turmeric woven into the pesto base adds just enough intrigue to keep people reaching for another scoop. The texture lands somewhere between hummus and tapenade: smooth enough to spread generously on a cracker, but with enough body to hold its shape on a platter. Everything here is straightforward plant-based pantry staple territory, so there's no need to scrutinize labels or worry about hidden animal-derived ingredients sneaking in. Pile it into a bowl, drizzle with good olive oil, scatter some parsley on top, and set it out with sliced vegetables or gluten-free crackers for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that looks genuinely impressive.
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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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