Pea and Mint Pesto – Culinary Ginger

Fresh peas, leek, mint, and Parmesan blend into a smooth and vibrant Pea and Mint Pesto. Spoon it over pasta, spread it on crusty bread, use it as a dip, or thin it into a light spring soup.

Ingredients

• Peas 
• Leek
• Fresh mint
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Ground black pepper
• Olive oil

Spring is peak pea season, making it the perfect time to enjoy fresh green peas. As farmers market season begins, look for garden peas. Also known as English peas or garden peas, they’re one of the most versatile spring vegetables. While fresh peas are best in season, frozen peas are a convenient year-round option. They also retain their sweetness beautifully. Freezing is also a great way to preserve extra peas or fresh herbs before they spoil.

Secret ingredient

This Pea and Mint Pesto takes a fresh twist on the classic pesto recipe. Instead of traditional garlic, this version uses sautéed leek for a subtle, savory depth that enhances the sweetness of the peas and the brightness of fresh mint. It’s a lighter, spring-inspired pesto that’s full of flavor without overpowering the herbs.

Pea and Mint Pesto uses

• Pasta Sauce: Toss with hot pasta or gnocchi for a vibrant and flavorful primavera dish.
• Crostini: Spread on crusty bread and top with your favorite vegetables or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a delightful appetizer.
• Sandwich Spread: Add a layer of freshness and flavor to your sandwiches.
• Veggie Dip: Thin with a little olive oil or yogurt for a refreshing dip for crudités.
• Soup: For a creamy and vibrant soup, blend the pesto with vegetable broth and a touch of cream.

But wait, there’s more! This versatile pesto can also be transformed into a creamy and delicious Pea and Mint Soup thickened with potatoes. Pictured Below.

Fresh or frozen peas

What makes this easy pesto recipe so versatile? You can use fresh or frozen peas, so you can enjoy this vibrant sauce year-round. While it’s not a true no-cook recipe (raw peas aren’t for everyone!), the peas only need a quick 2–3 minute blanch/boil for 2-3 minutes with the leeks to become perfectly crisp-tender (al dente).

Pesto without nuts

This pea pesto is naturally nut-free, creating a smooth and creamy texture without pine nuts. If you prefer a chunkier pesto, you can easily add your favorite nuts. Pine nuts, almonds, or pecans all work beautifully.

Freezing Pesto

One of the best things about this homemade pea pesto is that it freezes beautifully. Here’s how to store it:

1. Portion into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for single servings.
2. For larger batches, use airtight freezer containers.
3. Pour a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent air exposure.
4. Label and freeze for up to 6 months.
5. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before using.

This recipe yields 2½ cups (655 grams) and comes together in under 10 minutes. 

Simply boil the peas for 3 minutes, cool, then blend with fresh mint, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and olive oil.

Print

Pea and Mint Pesto

Fresh peas, leek, mint, and Parmesan blend into a smooth and vibrant Pea and Mint Pesto. Spoon it over pasta, spread it on crusty bread, use it as a dip, or thin it into a light spring soup.

Course Appetizers

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 3 minutes minutes

Total Time 8 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 242kcal

Author Janette

• 2 cups (181 gram fresh peas or frozen peas defrosted
• ½ medium leek chopped
• Small handful of fresh mint leaves
• ½ cup (45 grams) Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup (118 ml) olive oil

• Bring a pan filled half-way with water to a boil and add the peas and leeks. Cook for 3 minutes, drain and set aside to cool for 5 minutes.

• Add the cooled or defrosted peas, leek, mint, Parmesan, salt & pepper to a food processor.

• Pulse 10 times until chopped, then with the processor running, drizzle in the olive oil until well blended and smooth. You can add as much or as little as you like to make it the consistency you want. Taste for salt, add more if needed.

Serving: 1 | Calories: 242kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 16g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 506mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g