Basil pesto
Basil pesto is a vibrant Italian sauce made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make condiment adds a fragrant and savory flavor to pasta, pizza, and grilled dishes.
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1.50 cups basil leaves1/3 cup pine nuts
2 garlic cloves
1/2 cup olive oil
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
Basil pesto is a classic Italian sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta and pizza to grilled meats and vegetables. It's fragrant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make at home with just a few fresh ingredients. Let's dive into this delightful recipe that will bring a burst of fresh and savory taste to your meals.
Instructions:
- Wash and dry the basil leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Peel the garlic cloves to prepare them for blending.
- If desired, toast the pine nuts for extra flavor. Place the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Stir frequently until they turn golden brown and emit a fragrant aroma. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
- Transfer the toasted pine nuts to a plate to cool.
- In a food processor or blender, add the basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic cloves.
- Pulse a few times until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
- Gradually add the olive oil while the food processor or blender is running.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, pausing to scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the blended mixture.
- Pulse a few more times until the cheese is fully integrated into the pesto.
- If the mixture appears too thick, you can add a bit more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste the pesto and add salt and pepper as needed, although the Parmesan cheese typically provides sufficient saltiness.
- Transfer the basil pesto to an airtight container.
- Drizzle a small amount of olive oil on top to prevent the pesto from oxidizing and turning brown.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
- Basil pesto is versatile and can be used in various dishes such as pasta, sandwiches, pizzas, or as a dip. Enjoy the vibrant, fresh flavors it brings to your meals!
Making homemade basil pesto is quick and straightforward, and it's a wonderful way to elevate your dishes with fresh and vibrant flavors. This versatile sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer-term storage. Enjoy it as a topping, dip, or mix-in to add a burst of deliciousness to your meals.
Basil pesto FAQ:
Basil pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To prevent oxidation, drizzle a small amount of olive oil on top before sealing.
Yes, you can substitute pine nuts with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or pecans. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, but they will work well in pesto.
A small skillet or frying pan works best for toasting pine nuts. Use a dry pan over medium heat to ensure even toasting without burning.
The pesto should be smooth and creamy. If it appears too thick, gradually add more olive oil until you reach your desired consistency.
Yes, basil pesto can be frozen for longer storage. Transfer it to an airtight container or ice cube trays, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator when ready to use.
Tips:
- Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor. Avoid leaves that are wilted or yellowing.
- Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until golden. This enhances their nutty flavor.
- For a smoother pesto, blend the ingredients in a food processor. For a chunkier texture, use a mortar and pestle.
- Add the olive oil gradually while blending to achieve the desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Nutrition per serving
10 ServingsCalories 50kcal
Protein 1.58g
Carbohydrates 1.22g
Fiber 0.23g
Sugar 0.20g
Fat 16g
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