Pesto is an iconic Italian sauce that originated in Genoa. Made with a minimal list of ingredients – basil, pine nuts, hard cheese, garlic, extra virgin olive oil and salt – it is culinary genius. My Classic Basil Pesto recipe reflects the way I grew up making it with my Mom’s Italian family, except I use vegetarian Parmesan cheese made with microbial rennet.
Keyword: Dips and Spreads
Cherry Chutney Recipe
This Cherry Chutney Recipe delivers a sweet-tart condiment to serve with curries, grilled cheese, veggie burgers, grilled tofu, roasted vegetables and more.
Chive Blossom Butter Recipe
This Chive Blossom Butter recipe makes an outstanding compound butter that adds onion flavor to vegetables, eggs, pasta, potatoes, bread and more.
Chocolate Hummus
This easy, vegetarian recipe for Chocolate Hummus contains garbanzo beans (chickpeas), tahini, cocoa powder, date syrup and vanilla. The result is a decadent, fudgy dip that tastes a bit like brownie batter. Serve with fresh fruit, hard or soft pretzels, graham crackers or even cheese. I always make double batches because it’s so delicious.
Membrillo (Quince Paste)
Membrillo is a rich paste made with quince, a fragrant yellow fruit in the apple and pear family. It is often served with Manchego cheese for a sweet and savory treat that works as an appetizer, snack, or dessert. This vegetarian recipe yields two 9-inch square pans.
Salsa Verde with Avocado
Salsa verde is a flavorful green sauce made with fresh tomatillos; it is a popular condiment in Mexican cuisine. My recipe for Salsa Verde with Avocado results in a mild sauce (I’m a spicy food wuss), but you can adjust the heat as you see fit. We use salsa verde on just about everything; I’m fond of adding it to grilled tofu.
Roasted Eggplant Dip with Yogurt, Walnuts and Mint
I grow A LOT of eggplant (which I usually call aubergine just because I like saying it), so I’m always experimenting with new ways to serve it. I was inspired to make this Roasted Eggplant Dip with Yogurt, Walnuts and Mint after tasting something similar at a Persian dinner back in the 90s; this is my personal recipe developed through trial and error over the years.
