Reading Time: 5 minutes Deliciously Nutty: Making Pesto With Cashews Instead of Pine Nuts
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When making pesto, the traditional recipe calls for pine nuts. But have you ever considered using cashews instead?
Cashews are a fantastic substitute for pine nuts in pesto, bringing their own unique flavor and texture to the mix.
Not only do they give your pesto a delightful creaminess, but they also offer some surprising benefits.
Table of Contents
Why Choose Cashews Over Pine Nuts?
There are several reasons to opt for cashews over pine nuts when making pesto. First, cashews have a mild flavor and soft texture that blends beautifully with the other ingredients in pesto.
They add a slightly nutty flavor to the dish, giving it a unique twist without overpowering the other flavors.
Second, cashews are significantly cheaper than pine nuts. This makes them an excellent option for those who love pesto but want a more cost-effective ingredient.
The price difference can vary depending on where you shop, but generally, cashews are less expensive than pine nuts.
Based on my research, a pound of cashews is about $6 a pound, compared to $23 a pound for pine nuts. That is on the low end!
Third, cashews offer a creamier texture compared to pine nuts. This can make your pesto even more indulgent and satisfying.
Finally, using cashews instead of pine nuts can be a great alternative for those who are allergic to pine nuts.
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Related: Easy Healthy Pesto with Protein Recipe -Spinach and Almonds
A Family Affair: Making Pesto with Kids
One of the great things about making pesto is that it’s a fun and easy activity to do with kids.
I plant a basil plant from Trader Joe’s with my children every year. It’s one of our favorite traditions. We love watching the plant grow, and when it’s time, we all participate in picking the basil leaves.
The kids absolutely love being part of the process and it gives them a sense of accomplishment.
Plus, it’s a great way to teach them about where our food comes from.
Once we’ve gathered enough basil leaves, we head to the kitchen to make our homemade cashew pesto. It’s a simple recipe that the kids can help with, and they enjoy seeing (and tasting!) the fruits of their labor.
Recipe for Cashew Pesto
Here’s our family’s favorite recipe for cashew pesto:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons of garlic (this is a lot but it is how our kids like it)
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions:
- Combine basil, cashews, Parmesan, and garlic in a food processor. Process until finely chopped.
- With the machine running, slowly add the olive oil, processing until the mixture is smooth. You may not need the full 1/2 cup. Just keep pouring until the pesto is the consistency you prefer.
- Store the pesto in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for up to several months.
Delicious Homemade Pesto With Cashews
Equipment
- Food Processor
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup olive oil you likely won't need this much
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp garlic this is a lot but it is how our kids like it
Instructions
- Combine basil, cashews, Parmesan, and garlic in a food processor. Process until finely chopped.
- With the machine running, slowly add the olive oil, processing until the mixture is smooth. You may not need the full 1/2 cup. Just keep pouring until the pesto is the consistency you prefer.
- Store the pesto in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for up to several months.
Cashew Vs Pine Nut Cost Comparison
Based on the information obtained from various sources, the prices of cashews and pine nuts per pound can vary depending on a number of factors such as location, brand, and quality.
Cashews: The price of cashews ranges from about $5.50 to $20 per pound. Nuts in Bulk sells its cashews at $8.95 per pound, while Texas Pecan Co offers raw split cashews at $5.50 per pound and roasted/salted cashews at $5.95 per pound.
Texas Pecon Co offers the cheapest cashews I could find.
Pine Nuts: Pine nuts are often more expensive than cashews. They are sold for around $23 per pound and can even reach up to $45 per pound.
Pro Tip: We use cashew pieces. They cost less than whole cashews, and who cares that they are pieces since they are going in a food processor.
Please note that these prices are subject to change and it is recommended to check multiple sources before making a purchase.
Pesto With Cashews
Making pesto with cashews instead of pine nuts is not only a great way to save money, but also a fun and delicious way to change up your pesto game.
Give it a try – you might find your new favorite pesto recipe!
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Greg is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 22+ years experience in Financial Services. He has held numerous FINRA Securities licenses (series 7, 63, 65, and 66), and is an expert on Investment Products and Financial Planning. Greg has 22+ years experience as a real estate investor and degrees in Psychology and Philosophy.
Greg has been quoted/interviewed in Yahoo Money, Yahoo Finance, USA Today, Authority Magazine, Realtor.com, Business Insider, and others.
Greg is an avid runner, and the father to identical twin girls and their awesome brother. His love of budgeting and his kids led him to join The Great Resignation in 2021.
Disclaimer: Any Financial Tips on ChaChingQueen are general and informational. Speak with a professional about your specific situation.