Turn waste into taste: Cauliflower leaf pesto recipe
You don't have to be a die-hard zero-waste enthusiast to experiment with using parts of products in tasty ways that usually end up in the trash. This time, my focus fell on a part of the cauliflower that seemed inedible to me. But nothing could be further from the truth!
5:46 PM EDT, August 19, 2024
Who would have thought that cauliflower leaves, typically in the trash, could become the main ingredient of a delicious pesto? I had not realized how much flavor and nutritional value were hidden in these green leaves for a long time. Now that I've discovered this simple recipe, my family can't stop asking for more.
Why should you use cauliflower leaves?
Cauliflower leaf pesto is a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional recipes that fully utilizes what usually ends up in the trash. Thanks to a simple recipe, you can enjoy this green delicacy's unique taste and nutritional benefits. Try making cauliflower leaf pesto yourself and see how easy it is to turn scraps into a culinary hit.
How to make cauliflower leaf pesto?
Making cauliflower leaf pesto is extremely simple and quick. Here is the recipe step by step:
Ingredients:
- Cauliflower leaves (from one cauliflower),
- 2 oz of cashews (or walnuts),
- 2 oz of grated Parmesan,
- 2 cloves of garlic,
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice,
- 3.5 oz of olive oil,
- Salt and pepper (to taste).
Preparation:
- Preparing the leaves: Thoroughly wash the cauliflower leaves and remove the hard, thick parts. Keep only the soft leaves. Blanch them for 1-2 minutes in boiling water, then quickly cool them in cold water to preserve their green color and softness. This is an optional step but is recommended for smoother pesto consistency.
- Making the pesto: Place the cauliflower leaves, nuts, grated Parmesan, garlic, and lemon juice in a blender or food processor. Blend, gradually adding olive oil until a smooth consistency is achieved. Season the pesto with salt and pepper to taste.
- Storage: Transfer the ready pesto to a clean jar and store it in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it to enjoy it for a longer time.
How to use cauliflower leaf pesto?
Cauliflower leaf pesto is highly versatile and can be used in many ways. Here are a few ideas:
- Pasta: Add pesto to your favorite pasta for a quick and healthy dinner.
- Sandwiches: Use pesto to spread for sandwiches, giving them a unique flavor.
- Salads: Add a spoonful of pesto to salads to enrich their taste and nutritional value.
- Marinade: Use pesto as a marinade for meat or vegetables before grilling.
