Introduction
Pesto is one of the most beloved Italian condiments, typically made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. But what if you could enjoy a bright, spring-inspired version that’s just as delicious—without waiting for basil season? Enter pea pesto, a vibrant, slightly sweet, and incredibly versatile variation made with frozen peas.
This pea pesto recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The best part? You don’t even need to cook the peas! They blend beautifully with garlic, toasted pistachios, lemon, Pecorino Romano cheese, and olive oil to create a creamy, zesty, and nutty pesto that’s perfect for pasta, toast, grilled meats, and more. Whether you use frozen or fresh peas, this pesto is a simple way to bring the flavors of spring to your table all year long.
Why You’ll Love Pea Pesto
- Year-Round Availability: Uses frozen peas, so you can enjoy it anytime.
- Naturally Sweet and Fresh: Peas add a delicate sweetness that balances perfectly with the salty Pecorino Romano.
- Quick and Easy: Takes only 10 minutes to make in a food processor.
- Versatile: Works as a sauce, spread, dip, or even a soup garnish.
- Healthy and Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants.
Ingredients for Pea Pesto
To make this delicious, creamy pea pesto, you’ll need:
- 1 1/2 cups frozen shelled peas (6 ounces), thawed
- 2 tablespoons shelled roasted pistachios (unsalted or lightly salted)
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 small lemon (zested and juiced, about 2 tablespoons juice)
- 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
How to Make Pea Pesto
Step 1: Prepare the Peas
Thaw the frozen peas by placing them in a bowl in the refrigerator overnight or leaving them on the counter at room temperature for 20–30 minutes. It’s okay if they’re still slightly cold.
Step 2: Process the Peas, Nuts, and Garlic
- Place the peas, pistachios, and garlic in the bowl of a food processor fitted with a blade attachment.
- Pulse 10 times until roughly chopped.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
- Finely grate the lemon zest into the food processor.
- Halve the lemon and squeeze in 2 tablespoons of juice.
- Add grated Pecorino Romano cheese, olive oil, and kosher salt.
Step 4: Blend the Pesto
- Process for about 30 seconds, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Taste and adjust salt if necessary.
Step 5: Store or Serve
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- It won’t brown like basil pesto, so there’s no need to cover it with olive oil.
- Freeze in ice cube trays and transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 6 months.
How to Use Pea Pesto
Pea pesto is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to use it:
1. Pasta and Gnocchi
- Toss pea pesto with hot pasta or gnocchi for a creamy, flavorful dish.
- Add a splash of pasta water to thin it out if needed.
- Top with extra Pecorino and fresh herbs.
2. Toast and Crostini
- Spread on toasted sourdough and top with avocado, a poached egg, or radishes.
- Smear it on crostini and top with crumbled goat cheese or feta.
3. Grilled Meats and Fish
- Spoon over grilled salmon, chicken, or shrimp for extra flavor.
- Use it as a marinade for meats before grilling.
4. Eggs and Breakfast Dishes
- Stir into scrambled eggs or omelets for a pop of color and flavor.
- Dollop onto savory oatmeal or grain bowls.
5. Soups and Salads
- Garnish asparagus or carrot soup with a spoonful.
- Drizzle over grain bowls or fresh greens for an extra punch.
Making Pea Pesto with Fresh Peas
If you have access to fresh peas, you can substitute them for frozen peas. However, they require blanching:
- Bring a small pot of water to a boil.
- Add 1 cup shelled fresh peas and blanch for 1 minute.
- Drain and transfer to an ice water bath to cool.
- Pat dry and use in the recipe as directed.
Substitutions and Variations
- Nuts & Seeds: Swap pistachios for walnuts, almonds, cashews, or pepitas.
- Cheese: Use Parmesan instead of Pecorino Romano (add extra salt if needed).
- Herbs: Add basil, mint, or parsley for a fresh twist.
- Dairy-Free/Vegan: Replace cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Pea Pesto Ahead of Time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for 6 months. If freezing, consider portioning it into ice cube trays for easy use in small amounts. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge or stir directly into hot pasta to warm it up.
What Can I Use Instead of Pistachios?
Try toasted walnuts, almonds, or pepitas for a different nutty flavor. For a unique twist, use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Each type of nut or seed brings a slightly different texture and taste, so feel free to experiment based on your preference or dietary needs.
How Do I Thin Out Pea Pesto?
Add a little extra olive oil or warm water to reach your desired consistency. If using it for pasta, reserve a bit of the starchy pasta water to mix in—it helps create a silkier texture that clings beautifully to noodles.
Does Pea Pesto Turn Brown?
No! Unlike basil pesto, pea pesto retains its bright green color without oxidation. However, if you want an even fresher look, a squeeze of extra lemon juice can help preserve its vibrancy for longer.
Is Pea Pesto Kid-Friendly?
Yes! It’s naturally sweet and mild, making it a great way to add veggies to kids’ meals. Try spreading it on crackers, using it as a dip for veggies, or mixing it into mac and cheese for a sneaky way to boost nutrition without altering the taste too much.
Final Thoughts
Pea pesto is a delightful twist on traditional pesto, bringing sweet, nutty, and tangy flavors together in one vibrant spread. Whether you’re using it on pasta, toast, meats, or soups, it’s a versatile and nutritious condiment that’s easy to make and store.
Beyond its incredible flavor, pea pesto is also a great meal-prep staple. It can be made in advance, stored in the fridge for a week, or frozen for months, allowing you to have a bright and delicious sauce on hand whenever you need it. Having a jar of pea pesto ready means quick meals—just toss it with pasta, spread it on a sandwich, or drizzle it over roasted vegetables for an instant flavor boost.
For those who love experimenting, consider incorporating different ingredients to customize the flavor. Adding a handful of fresh herbs like basil or mint gives a new layer of complexity, while mixing in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or ricotta makes it extra creamy and rich. If you enjoy spice, a pinch of cayenne or a drizzle of chili oil can add a nice kick.
Try this recipe and experiment with different nuts, cheeses, and add-ins to create your own signature version. No matter how you use it, pea pesto is guaranteed to brighten up your meals! Let us know your favorite ways to enjoy it, and don’t be afraid to get creative. Happy cooking!