Samuel Adams and Dunkin’ Donuts are local brands that need no introduction, even nationally. Others, like South River Miso, Mendon Creamery, and Taza Chocolate, are under the radar to all but discerning foodies, yet are no less praiseworthy. Put Turtledove Company on that list.
Since it started in 1995, Turtledove has gone through a few changes. Once housed in Massachusetts, the pesto pro recently moved to New Hampshire. Owner Julie Lapham also retooled the look of her line. What’s under the vivid new purple lid, however, is still tantalizing stuff.
Ironically, the pesto that leads the pack isn’t really a pesto, at least in the classic sense. Ginger Peanut Sesame Pesto is tailor-made for a Thai-inspired chicken satay. The tangy, balanced blend of peanut and ginger packs earthy-sweet flavor, and can take a dose of quality hot sauce. Add a few spoonfuls to a squeeze of fresh orange juice and a bit of soy sauce for a fragrant spring roll dip. It’s an impressive match for yakisoba noodles, too, with a handful of pea pods thrown in for color and crunch.
Turtledove is hardly a one-trick pony. For an easy, elegant homemade pizza, spread dough with Lemon Artichoke Pesto and top with provolone. The luscious, briny Tuscan Olive Pesto is at home with marinara sauce, as well as with a picnic lunch of crusty bread and a wedge of pecorino fresco. The brand-new Basil Garlic Dip is a secret weapon for amped-up garlic bread.
It doesn’t stop there. Team your preferred Turtledove sauce with penne pasta. Blend with olive oil and drizzle on field greens. Dollop on a toasted bagel. Scoop onto chips. With anything in the Turtledove line, it’s all about possibilities. Sometimes you’ll want to cook with it. Sometimes you’ll want to set it out with a cheese plate. Heck, sometimes you’ll want to grab a spoon and eat it from the jar.
Available for approximately $6 at select Stop & Shop Supermarkets, Market Baskets, and gourmet markets.
