Carrot Top Pesto

Waste-Free Pesto with a Zesty Twist

This carrot top pesto is a fresh and flavourful way to reduce food waste while adding a nutritional boost to your meals. By using the vibrant green tops of carrots, this recipe transforms what’s often discarded into a delicious dip or spread. It’s packed with plant-based goodness and can be enjoyed with veggie sticks, tossed through pasta or spread onto wraps and crackers. You’re going to love how simple and versatile it is.

Blend It Fresh

1. Rinse the carrot tops thoroughly and trim away any tough stems.

2. Roughly chop the greens so they blend more easily.

3. Add them to a blender with fresh basil leaves, walnuts or pine nuts, olive oil, apple cider vinegar and lemon juice.

4. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then blend until smooth and textured.

5. For a richer flavour, add nutritional yeast or parmesan and blend again.

6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight jar in the fridge for a few days.

A Smart Way to Eat More Greens

Carrot tops are a surprisingly nutritious leafy green, naturally rich in antioxidants and chlorophyll. They’re often overlooked, but make an excellent base for recipes like pesto. Adding walnuts or pine nuts brings healthy fats and texture, while lemon and apple cider vinegar offer a refreshing zing that supports digestion in a balanced way.

Spread the Goodness, Share the Love

Whether you're dipping, spreading or stirring through your favourite dish, this easy pesto adds colour and nourishment to your plate. Share your version in the Happy Healthy You Community and discover more creative wholefood recipes in our Health Hub