Carrot Top Pesto
Carrot Top Pesto
Serves: 4
Cook Time: 10mins
Summary

Don’t toss those carrot tops! They’re loaded with flavor—and perfect for making a bright, herby pesto that’s just as good (if not better) than the classic. Paired with basil, garlic, pecans, and Parmesan, this recipe is quick, easy, and a smart way to use the whole vegetable.

Ingredients

2 Cups Carrot Tops

1⁄3 Cup Pecans

2 Garlic Cloves, Peeled

½ Cup Parmesan Cheese, 

1 Cup Basil 

Cup Olive Oil

Salt & Pepper to Taste

Directions

1. Start with the Pecans & Garlic

Toss pecans and garlic into a food processor, and pulse until they form a coarse paste.

2. Add Greens & Cheese

Rinse your carrot tops, then add them to the processor along with basil and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped and well combined.

3. Drizzle in Olive Oil

With the processor running (or pulsing), slowly drizzle in the olive oil until smooth(ish) and spreadable.

4. Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper, give it one last pulse, and that’s it—your pesto is ready. Toss with pasta or roasted veggies. Spread on sandwiches or flatbreads. Or, Swirl into soups or grain bowls.

Notes

1. Go Nuts

No pecans? Try walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds.

2. Go Dairy-Free 

Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast.

3. Save It For Later

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week—or freeze in ice cube trays for easy single servings.