Charred Poblano and Garlic Pesto

Jun 04, 2023June 4, 20230 12

Charred Poblano and Garlic Pesto - A smoky twist on the classic pesto recipe

by The Chefin Sauce

Prep

10 min

Cook

20 min

Ready In

30 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	2 large poblano peppers , halved lengthwise and cored ( about 6 ounces each )
	3 tablespoons olive oil , plus additional for chiles
	4 large unpeeled garlic cloves , lightly smashed
	2 scallions
	1/4 cup cilantro leaf
	1/3 cup crumbled queso fresco ( or feta cheese )
	salt & freshly ground black pepper

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Makes about 1 cup of pesto

Calories

120 per tablespoon

Sugar

Fat

12g

Charred poblano and garlic pesto is a smoky twist on the classic pesto recipe. The poblano peppers are grilled or broiled until they are blackened and blistered, then combined with garlic, cilantro, and queso fresco to create a bright and flavorful sauce. This pesto is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to pasta dishes, sandwiches, and grilled meats. The combination of smoky and spicy flavors makes this sauce a favorite for those who enjoy bold flavors.

Instructions

1.	Preheat a grill or broiler to high heat.
2.	Place poblano pepper halves on a baking sheet and brush the cut side with olive oil.
3.	Grill or broil the peppers cut-side down until they are blackened and blistered, about 10 minutes.
4.	Place the peppers in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let rest for 10 minutes to steam and loosen the skin.
5.	Once cool enough to handle, peel and discard the skin.
6.	In a food processor, combine the roasted poblano peppers, garlic cloves, scallions, cilantro, and queso fresco. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
7.	With the motor running, slowly pour in the 3 tablespoons of olive oil to create a smooth and creamy pesto.
8.	Season the pesto with salt and black pepper, to taste.

PROS

Charred poblano and garlic pesto is a flavorful and smoky twist on the classic pesto recipe.
The combination of poblano peppers, garlic, and cilantro creates a bright and fragrant sauce.

This sauce is versatile and can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes, including pasta, sandwiches, and grilled meats.

CONS

This pesto can be slightly spicy due to the poblano peppers, which may not be to everyone’s taste.

This sauce is high in calories and fat due to the queso fresco and olive oil.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This pesto contains garlic, which has been linked to several health benefits, including reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and lowering cholesterol levels.
Poblano peppers are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin A.