lemon thyme pesto main dish

Author of this recipe: Kasi Lofthouse

"Try this zesty lemon thyme pesto dish! A fresh, flavorful recipe with herbs, garlic, and Parmesan—perfect for pasta, chicken, or veggies!"

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Ingredients

• Here’s a list of ingredients for a **lemon thyme pesto main dish**, optimized with SEO-friendly formatting and relevant keywords:
• - **Fresh basil leaves** (2 cups, packed) - for a vibrant, herbaceous base.
• - **Fresh thyme leaves** (2 tablespoons) - adds a fragrant, earthy flavor.
• - **Garlic cloves** (2-3) - for a bold, aromatic kick.
• - **Lemon zest** (from 1 lemon) - brightens the pesto with citrusy notes.
• - **Lemon juice** (2 tablespoons) - enhances freshness and acidity.
• - **Pine nuts** (1/3 cup) - adds a creamy, nutty texture.
• - **Extra virgin olive oil** (1/2 cup) - for a smooth, rich consistency.
• - **Parmesan cheese** (1/2 cup, grated) - provides a salty, umami flavor.
• - **Salt** (to taste) - balances the flavors.
• - **Black pepper** (to taste) - adds a hint of spice.
• - **Cooked pasta** (16 oz, such as spaghetti or penne) - the perfect base for the pesto.
• - **Optional: Cherry tomatoes** (1 cup, halved) - for a burst of sweetness.
• - **Optional: Grilled chicken or shrimp** - for added protein.
• This **lemon thyme pesto recipe** is perfect for a quick, flavorful, and healthy **main dish**. It’s packed with fresh herbs, citrus, and nutty flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing **summer pasta dish** or **easy dinner idea**.

Steps

1. # How to Make a Delicious Lemon Thyme Pesto Main Dish
3. If you're looking for a fresh, zesty, and herbaceous main dish, this **lemon thyme pesto recipe** is perfect for you. Packed with vibrant flavors, this dish is easy to prepare and versatile enough to pair with pasta, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables. Follow these detailed steps to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
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7. ## **Ingredients for Lemon Thyme Pesto**
8. - 2 cups fresh thyme leaves (stems removed)
9. - 1 cup fresh basil leaves
10. - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
11. - 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts
12. - 2 garlic cloves, peeled
13. - Zest and juice of 1 lemon
14. - 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
15. - Salt and pepper to taste
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19. ## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
21. ### **1. Prepare the Ingredients**
22. - Wash and dry the thyme and basil leaves thoroughly.
23. - Toast the pine nuts or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool.
24. - Zest and juice the lemon, ensuring no seeds fall into the mixture.
26. ### **2. Blend the Pesto**
27. - In a food processor, combine the thyme, basil, toasted nuts, garlic, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese.
28. - Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
29. - While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
30. - Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Blend again to combine.
32. ### **3. Cook Your Main Dish Base**
33. - Choose your base: pasta, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.
34. - For pasta: Cook 12 oz of your favorite pasta (like spaghetti or penne) according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
35. - For chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and olive oil, then grill until fully cooked.
36. - For vegetables: Toss veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
38. ### **4. Combine and Serve**
39. - Toss the cooked pasta, chicken, or vegetables with the lemon thyme pesto. Add reserved pasta water if needed to create a silky sauce.
40. - Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, or fresh thyme leaves.
41. - Serve immediately and enjoy!
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45. ## **Tips for Success**
46. - **Storage:** Store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
47. - **Customization:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or substitute thyme with other herbs like oregano or rosemary.
48. - **Pairing:** Serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
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52. This **lemon thyme pesto main dish** is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its bright, herbaceous flavors will leave your taste buds craving more. Try this recipe today and elevate your cooking game!
54. **Keywords:** lemon thyme pesto, pesto main dish, easy pesto recipe, thyme pesto pasta, herbaceous pesto, lemon thyme sauce, homemade pesto, quick dinner ideas.
56. By following these steps, you’ll create a flavorful and SEO-friendly dish that’s sure to impress!

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