Basil pesto
Discover the vibrant flavors of homemade basil pesto with this easy recipe! Made with fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and grated parmesan cheese, this classic sauce is perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip. Ready in minutes for a burst of deliciousness!
- 04 Jun 2024
- Cook time 0 min
- Prep time 15 min
- 10 Servings
- 5 Ingredients
Basil pesto is a classic Italian sauce that is both versatile and easy to make. It combines fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and parmesan cheese to create a rich, flavorful condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pastas to sandwiches. This recipe is perfect for adding a burst of herbal and cheesy goodness to your meals.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- Wash and dry the basil leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Peel the garlic cloves.
- Optional but recommended for added flavor: Heat a small skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the pine nuts and toast them lightly, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.
- Once toasted, transfer the pine nuts to a plate to cool.
- In a food processor or blender, add the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, and garlic cloves.
- Pulse the mixture several times until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture.
- With the food processor or blender running on low speed, slowly pour in the olive oil.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
- If the pesto is too thick, you can add a little more olive oil until you reach the desired consistency.
- Taste the pesto and add salt, if needed, according to your preference.
- Transfer the pesto to a clean, airtight container.
- Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the top of the pesto to help preserve its color and freshness.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for up to three months.
Tips:
- Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor and vibrant green color.
- Toast the pine nuts lightly before using them to deepen their flavor.
- Grate the parmesan cheese finely to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients.
- Add the olive oil in a slow stream while blending to get a smoother consistency.
- Adjust the garlic amount according to your taste preference if you like a stronger or milder garlic flavor.
- For a nut-free variation, you can substitute pine nuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
- Store any leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, and add a thin layer of olive oil on top to maintain freshness.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and versatile basil pesto that will enhance the flavor of a wide variety of dishes. Follow these tips to make the perfect pesto every time, and enjoy the fresh, aromatic taste it brings to your meals.
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 15 grams |
| Energy | |
| Calories 44kcal | 2% |
| Protein | |
| Protein 1.38g | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | |
| Carbohydrates 1.13g | 0% |
| Fiber 0.22g | 1% |
| Sugar 0.20g | 0% |
| Fat | |
| Fat 10g | 12% |
| Saturated 1.41g | 5% |
| Cholesterol 1.74mg | - |
| Vitamins | |
| Vitamin A 6ug | 1% |
| Choline 3.45mg | 1% |
| Vitamin B1 0.02mg | 2% |
| Vitamin B2 0.02mg | 2% |
| Vitamin B3 0.24mg | 2% |
| Vitamin B6 0.02mg | 1% |
| Vitamin B9 2.41ug | 1% |
| Vitamin B12 0.03ug | 1% |
| Vitamin C 0.23mg | 0% |
| Vitamin E 0.51mg | 3% |
| Vitamin K 6ug | 5% |
| Minerals | |
| Calcium, Ca 20mg | 2% |
| Copper, Cu 0.08mg | 0% |
| Iron, Fe 0.33mg | 3% |
| Magnesium, Mg 15mg | 3% |
| Phosphorus, P 44mg | 4% |
| Potassium, K 40mg | 1% |
| Selenium, Se 0.80ug | 1% |
| Sodium, Na 36mg | 2% |
| Zinc, Zn 0.44mg | 4% |
| Water | |
| Water 1.60g | - |
| * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2500 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. | |
More recipes
Shrimp & leek spaghetti
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal with friends.
14 Mar 2024Light and creamy whole-wheat fettuccine alfredo with lemon and parsley
Try this flavorful and satisfying meal tonight.
19 Apr 2024Whole-wheat pasta with fresh tomato sauce and ricotta cheese
Perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
22 Apr 2024Pistachio & orange biscotti
Try this easy-to-follow recipe and bring a touch of gourmet to your homemade cookie selection.
11 Apr 2024Bolognese-stuffed eggplants
Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, it's a must-try for any pasta lover looking to enjoy a low-carb alternative.
05 Jun 2024Chilli and olive polenta
Enjoy a deliciously gluten-free, vegan recipe that brings excitement to your table.
25 Mar 2024Italian vegetable soup with carrots, cauliflower, zucchini and kidney beans
Perfect for a cozy meal, this recipe combines fresh veggies and rich flavors to warm your heart and soul.
10 Jun 2024Penne chicken and mushroom bake
Perfectly seasoned with garlic, parsley, and a dash of black pepper, this comforting recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners.
15 May 2024Spiced hazelnut and orange biscotti
Easy to make with simple ingredients, they add a gourmet touch to your homemade treats.
12 May 2024Prosciutto and spinach arancini
Indulge in a delicious blend of flavors and textures that will impress at any meal.
08 Mar 2024Sweet potato, spinach and cashew risotto
Topped with grated parmesan, it's the perfect blend of comfort and elegance.
22 May 2024Classic beef carpaccio
Thinly sliced beef, topped with toasted pine nuts, fresh chives, and a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese, comes together to create a dish that's perfect for any special occasion or sophisticated appetizer.
17 May 2024Ricotta and semi-dried tomato pancakes with rocket salad
Perfect for a special meal or a nutritious treat.
22 Mar 2024Parmesan and mushroom baked eggs
A quick, nutritious, and tasty dish perfect for any morning.
13 Jun 2024