Author: Allie, Hamama Happiness Manager

Prep Time: 10 Min

Cook Time: 5 Min

Makes: 6 servings [1 ½ cups of pesto]

Pesto doesn’t always have to include basil and pine nuts - Try this springtime twist with fresh Sweet Pea Microgreens and sweet peas! Layer on top of toasty crostini & add fresh tomatoes and balsamic glaze for a quick and easy appetizer that will be sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds! This pesto is also perfect for pasta, chicken, salmon and more, so make a big batch and enjoy!

For the Sweet Pea Pesto:

• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen. If frozen, thaw first)
• 2 cups fresh Sweet Pea Microgreens (plus more for garnish)
• 2 small cloves garlic, peeled
• ½ cup nuts, optional [cashews, walnuts, almonds, or pine nuts]
• ⅓ cup of grated parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast
• A few sprigs of fresh mint, optional
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil (you may not need this full amount)

For the Crostini:

• 8 slices baguette or ciabatta bread [or whatever bread you prefer]
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 8 cherry tomatoes, halved or 1 tomato, sliced

For the Sweet Pea Pesto:

1. Pulse together the peas, Sweet Pea Microgreens, garlic, nuts and mint (if using), Parmesan or nutritional yeast, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper in a food processor.
2. With the machine running, slowly add the olive oil until well combined, about 1 to 2 minutes. Season with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
3. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.

• TIP: This pesto freezes beautifully if you want to keep it longer (I freeze it in ice cube trays).

For the Crostini:

1. Preheat a stovetop griddle or grill pan on medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the sliced bread with olive oil and toast until golden, about 1 to 2 minutes.
2. Transfer the bread to a platter and spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of the prepared pesto on each slice.
3. Top with tomato, balsamic glaze (optional) and additional Sweet Pea Microgreens. Serve immediately and enjoy!  

TIP: Make this a hearty breakfast by adding a fried egg on top!