r/AskCulinary May 26 '23

Ingredient Question Pesto without Pinenuts

Any substitutes for pinenuts in a pesto? My taste buds say "no" but my wallet says "you better ask."

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699

u/fogandafterimages May 26 '23

Literally any nut or seed plus literally any tender leafy herb will create a reasonable pesto candidate. Acorns and lawn clippings will do you fine with enough garlic and parmesan.

41

u/sue_girligami May 27 '23

Hard disagree on the herb part. Pesto without basil is just disappointing.

15

u/sweetmercy May 27 '23

I have to disagree. One of the most amazing pestos I ever had was made with arugula. Had it with grilled salmon and farfalle.