Cauliflower leaf pesto: Turning kitchen scraps into culinary gold

You don't have to be the biggest fan of zero waste to experiment with using parts of products that usually end up in the trash. This time, I chose a part of cauliflower that seemed inedible to me. Nothing could be further from the truth!

Who would have thought that cauliflower leaves, which typically end up in the trash can, could become the main ingredient of delicious pesto? For a long time, I didn't realize how much flavour and nutritional value are hidden in those green leaves. Now that I've discovered this simple recipe, my family can't stop asking for more.

Cauliflower leaf pesto is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional recipes that allows you to fully utilize what usually ends up in the trash. With a simple recipe, you can enjoy the unique taste and nutritional benefits of this green treat. Try making the cauliflower leaf pesto yourself and see how easy it is to turn scraps into a culinary hit.

Making cauliflower leaf pesto is incredibly simple and quick. Here's the step-by-step recipe:

Ingredients:

            
• cauliflower leaves (from one cauliflower)
• 2 oz cashews (or walnuts)
• 2 oz grated Parmesan
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 3.4 fl oz olive oil
• salt and pepper (to taste)

Preparation:

    
1. Preparing the leaves: Thoroughly wash the cauliflower leaves and remove the hard, thick parts. Leave only the soft leaves. You can blanch them for 1-2 minutes in boiling water, then quickly cool them in cold water to retain the green colour and softness. This is optional but recommended for a smoother pesto consistency.
2. Making the pesto: In a blender or food processor, place the cauliflower leaves, nuts, grated Parmesan, garlic, and lemon juice. Blend, gradually adding olive oil until you achieve a smooth consistency. Season the pesto with salt and pepper to your taste.
3. Storage: Transfer the prepared pesto to a clean jar and store it in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it to enjoy later.

Cauliflower leaf pesto is incredibly versatile and can be used in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

      
• Pasta: Add pesto to your favourite pasta for a quick and healthy meal.
• Sandwiches: Use pesto as a spread for sandwiches to give them a unique taste.
• Salads: Add a spoonful of pesto to salads to enhance their flavour and nutritional value.
• Marinade: Use pesto as a marinade for meat or vegetables before grilling.