Recipes for creative new pesto sauces

Presto... New Pestos!

Although it may be hard to believe, I have grown tired of traditional basil pesto. So I decided to branch out. Looking in my garden, I saw so many new possibilities. There was sage and lovage and chive and many more herbs all calling, "Try me!". So I did.

There was no need to be a purest about ingredients. Some had nuts; many didn't. I switched out or mixed oils and cheeses. Mostly, I just had fun. The results were amazing!

I'd like to share some of my favorites with you. Here they are in no particular order.

Garlic Scape, Wood Sorrel, Chives, Parmesan, and Grapeseed Olive - This is wonderful on pasta with broccoli, onions, and sauteed mushrooms. All of these herbs are loaded with beneficial phytonutrients.

Cilantro, Cheddar, Garlic, and Olive Oil - I use this as a sauce on tacos or Mexican Rice and Beans. Fresh cilantro is a great detoxifier. It is particularly good at helping the body to clear heavy metals. Raw garlic has antibiotic/antimicrobial and cardio-protective properties. 

Sage, Parmesan, Pepper, and Olive Olive - Truly delish on fresh tomatoes or in a pasta salad. Sage is my 'herb of choice' for relieving sore throat. It is also a great remedy for hot flashes.

Lovage, Parsley, Parmesan, Sunflower Seed, Garlic - Great in a sandwich with fresh tomato. It is also great in or on omelettes. From a medicinal standpoint, raw garlic has antibiotic/antimicrobial and cardio-protective properties. Parsley adds detoxifying benefits.

 * Here are some pics of Sage, Parsley, Garlic, Pepper, Olive oil, and Grapeseed oil Pesto in the making - from washing the herbs to blending in the Vitamix to pouring it into containers to freeze for future use.

I hope this will inspire you will get adventurous with your garden and blender. Your taste buds will thank you for it throughout the whole winter!

General Pesto Recipe

2 cups fresh, cleaned herb leaves; 3/4 cup oil; 1/2 cup freshly grated cheese; 1/4-1/3 cup  nuts; 3 garlic cloves; a pinch of pepper. Optional: Lemon peel.  Blend together until you achieve a cohesive, smooth consistency.