Basil Walnut Spread

By
Diana Rattray
Diana Rattray
Diana Rattray
Southern-cuisine expert and cookbook author Diana Rattray has created more than 5,000 recipes and articles in her 20 years as a food writer.
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Updated on 01/20/23
Basil Walnut Spread on Toast Rounds

Diana Rattray
Prep: 10 mins
Cook: 0 mins
Total: 10 mins
Servings: 16 servings
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
196 Calories
18g Fat
5g Carbs
5g Protein
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Nutrition Facts
Servings: 16
Amount per serving
Calories 196
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 18g 23%
Saturated Fat 5g 26%
Cholesterol 19mg 6%
Sodium 145mg 6%
Total Carbohydrate 5g 2%
Dietary Fiber 1g 3%
Protein 5g
Calcium 107mg 8%
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
(Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate.)

Cream cheese, Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and walnuts give this spread a pesto-like flavor and great texture. Serve with assorted crackers or toasted baguette slices.

The spread takes just minutes to make. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Ingredients

  • 6 leaves basil 
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese (​softened)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • dash of freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • Optional: 4 leaves basil (for garnish)

Steps to Make It

  1. Gather the ingredients.

  2. In ​a food processor, combine the basil and garlic. Process until finely chopped. Add cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, walnuts, olive oil, and a few turns of ground black pepper. Process until smooth.

  3. Transfer spread mixture to a serving dish and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

  4. Serve with assorted crackers or baguette rounds.

  5. Enjoy!

Recipe Variations