We swap fresh basil and pine nuts for ingredients that are more evergreen and everyday, perfect for a vibrant hit in cooler months. The warmth from the toasted walnuts will help the sauce emulsify in the food processor; toast in a dry skillet over medium-low for 5 minutes or until fragrant and warm. Dollop this pesto over vegetable soups, spread on crusty whole-wheat bread, or spoon over fish or chicken. If using as a pasta sauce, use the starchy pasta cooking liquid to thin the pesto in the food processor so that it coats the noodles.
How to Make It
Place spinach, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and crushed red pepper in a food processor; process until finely chopped. With processor on, slowly add olive oil through food chute. Add warm water; process until blended.