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Ramp and Walnut Pistou

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant wild garlic and walnut pistou is a sophisticated, vegan-friendly condiment that celebrates the brief but beautiful ramp season. By charring the ramps in a hot frying pan, you mellow their pungent bite and introduce a subtle smokiness that balances the earthy, toasted notes of the walnuts. It offers a rustic texture and a deep, savoury flavour profile that is far more complex than a standard pesto.

As a versatile addition to your spring repertoire, this pistou works beautifully swirled into a bowl of seasonal minestrone, drizzled over new potatoes, or simply spread onto toasted sourdough. The use of high-quality olive oil and a touch of white wine vinegar provides a bright finish, making it an excellent way to elevate simple grains and roasted vegetables.

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Ingredients for Ramp and Walnut Pistou

  • 40g walnuts

  • 1 bunch ramps (about 170g ), trimmed

  • 120ml olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

How to make Ramp and Walnut Pistou

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Preheat oven to 177°C. Toast walnuts on a rimmed baking sheet, tossing once, until golden brown, 8–10 minutes. Let cool. Coarsely chop; place in a medium bowl.

Heat a dry medium cast-iron skillet over high. Add ramps and cook, turning occasionally, until bulbs and greens are evenly charred. Remove from skillet and let cool. Coarsely chop and add to bowl with walnuts. Add oil and vinegar and toss to coat; season with salt and pepper.

Pistou (without vinegar) can be made 2 days ahead. Cover and chill. Add vinegar just before serving.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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