Basil pesto
Discover the vibrant flavors of homemade basil pesto with our simple recipe. Made with fresh basil leaves, aromatic garlic, rich pine nuts, sharp Parmesan cheese, and smooth olive oil, this versatile pesto is perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip. Whip up this classic Italian sauce in minutes for a delicious and fresh boost to your meals!
- 21 Apr 2025
- Cook time 0 min
- Prep time 15 min
- 10 Servings
- 5 Ingredients
Basil pesto is a classic Italian sauce that is simple to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors. This vibrant green sauce, made with fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil, can be used in a variety of dishes including pasta, sandwiches, and as a dip. Follow this easy recipe to bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen!
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- Rinse the basil leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
- Peel the garlic cloves.
- In a dry skillet over medium-low heat, add the pine nuts. Toast them gently, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Remove from heat and let them cool slightly. Toasting the pine nuts enhances their flavor but can be skipped if desired.
- In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic cloves, toasted or untoasted pine nuts, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Pulse the mixture several times until the ingredients are coarsely chopped and well-combined.
- With the food processor running on a low speed, gradually pour in the olive oil. Continue to process until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- If you prefer a chunkier pesto, you can pulse the olive oil in stages rather than adding it all at once.
- Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Although not included in the basic recipe, you can add a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavor, if desired.
- Transfer the pesto to a clean, airtight container. Basil pesto can be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- To prevent the pesto from turning brown, you can pour a thin layer of olive oil on top before refrigerating.
Tips:
- For the best flavor, use fresh basil leaves and high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Toast the pine nuts lightly in a dry skillet before adding them to the pesto to enhance their nutty flavor.
- If you prefer a thinner pesto, you can add a little more olive oil.
- Pesto can oxidize and turn brown when exposed to air. To keep it fresh and green, store it in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top.
- If you have leftover pesto, it can be frozen in ice cube trays for easy portioning and use later.
Making basil pesto at home is a quick and rewarding process. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a versatile sauce that adds a burst of freshness to any meal. Enjoy your homemade basil pesto as a topping for pasta, spread on sandwiches, or as a zesty dip for your favorite snacks!
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 22 grams |
| Energy | |
| Calories 50kcal | 2% |
| Protein | |
| Protein 1.58g | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | |
| Carbohydrates 1.22g | 0% |
| Fiber 0.23g | 1% |
| Sugar 0.20g | 0% |
| Fat | |
| Fat 16g | 19% |
| Saturated 2.35g | 8% |
| Cholesterol 2.30mg | - |
| Vitamins | |
| Vitamin A 9ug | 1% |
| Choline 3.58mg | 1% |
| Vitamin B1 0.02mg | 2% |
| Vitamin B2 0.02mg | 2% |
| Vitamin B3 0.25mg | 2% |
| Vitamin B6 0.02mg | 1% |
| Vitamin B9 2.69ug | 1% |
| Vitamin B12 0.04ug | 1% |
| Vitamin C 0.29mg | 0% |
| Vitamin E 0.51mg | 3% |
| Vitamin K 7ug | 6% |
| Minerals | |
| Calcium, Ca 27mg | 2% |
| Copper, Cu 0.08mg | 9% |
| Iron, Fe 0.35mg | 3% |
| Magnesium, Mg 16mg | 4% |
| Phosphorus, P 50mg | 4% |
| Potassium, K 40mg | 1% |
| Selenium, Se 1.02ug | 2% |
| Sodium, Na 45mg | 3% |
| Zinc, Zn 0.47mg | 4% |
| Water | |
| Water 2.07g | - |
| * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. | |
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