Watercress Dip with Basil and Pecans

Introduction

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional pesto, which originated in Italy. Pesto is typically made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. In this recipe, watercress and pecans are added to give the dip a fresh and nutty flavor.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to trim the stems of the watercress before blending to ensure a smooth texture.

- Do not over blend the mixture after adding the cream, as this can cause the dip to become too thin.

- Season the dip with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

- For a thinner consistency, add a tablespoon of milk or water to the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Watercress Dip with Basil and Pecans with fresh vegetables, crackers, or bread for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Blending, stirring, and seasoning are the main cooking techniques used in this recipe.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use arugula or spinach instead of watercress.

- Use pine nuts or walnuts instead of pecans.

- Use half-and-half or milk instead of whipping cream.

Make Ahead Tips

This dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Watercress Dip with Basil and Pecans in a decorative bowl garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dip with a crisp white wine or a sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply allow the dip to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Watercress Dip with Basil and Pecans contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Watercress Dip with Basil and Pecans contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Watercress Dip with Basil and Pecans contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Watercress Dip with Basil and Pecans contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dip is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (Parmesan cheese and whipping cream) and nuts (pecans). It may not be suitable for those with dairy or nut allergies.

Summary

Watercress Dip with Basil and Pecans is a nutritious dip that is high in fats and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Watercress Dip with Basil and Pecans is a flavorful and creamy dip that is perfect for entertaining or snacking. With its unique combination of watercress, basil, and pecans, this dip is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, it left a lasting impression on me. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my aunt in the countryside. She was known for her delicious cooking, and on this particular day, she served us a mouthwatering watercress dip with basil and pecans.

I remember the vibrant green color of the dip, the fragrant aroma of fresh basil, and the satisfying crunch of the pecans. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and I was determined to learn how to make it myself.

My aunt, seeing my enthusiasm, graciously shared her recipe with me. She explained that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. It was a simple recipe, but one that required patience and a keen eye for detail.

I watched as my aunt gathered the ingredients – a bunch of fresh watercress, a handful of basil leaves, a handful of pecans, some garlic, lemon juice, and a dollop of mayonnaise. She washed the watercress and basil, chopped the pecans, and minced the garlic. Then, she combined everything in a food processor and blended it all together until it formed a smooth and creamy dip.

As she spooned the dip into a serving bowl, I couldn't wait to try it. The first bite was a revelation – the peppery bite of the watercress, the earthy sweetness of the basil, the nutty crunch of the pecans, and the zesty kick of garlic and lemon juice. It was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds, and I knew I had to master this recipe.

Over the years, I made the watercress dip with basil and pecans countless times. I experimented with different proportions of ingredients, added a pinch of salt here, a dash of hot sauce there, until I found the perfect balance of flavors. Each time I made it, I thought of my aunt and her grandmother, and how this simple recipe had brought us all together.

I shared the recipe with my own daughters, who now make it for their own families. It has become a beloved tradition in our household, a dish that we serve at family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. It always brings back memories of my aunt's cozy kitchen, the smell of fresh herbs and spices wafting through the air, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

As I sit here now, writing down this recipe for watercress dip with basil and pecans, I can't help but feel grateful for all the wonderful people who have passed it down to me. It is a simple dish, but one that holds a special place in my heart. I hope that others will enjoy it as much as my family has, and that it will bring them as much joy and happiness as it has brought me.

So here it is, my cherished recipe for watercress dip with basil and pecans. May it bring you as much delight as it has brought me over the years. Bon appétit!

Categories

| Basil Recipes | Cress Recipes | Dip Recipes | Pecan Recipes |

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