Easy Basil Pesto Recipe

Easy Basil Pesto Recipe


Learn how to make fresh and vibrant basil pesto right at home with this easy recipe. Perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or using as a dip, homemade pesto adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Follow along to create your own batch of delicious basil pesto!

Ingredients for Basil Pesto:

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make Basil Pesto:

  1. Prepare the Basil: Wash the basil leaves thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. Toast the Nuts: If using pine nuts or walnuts, toast them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool.
  3. Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, nuts, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
  4. Add Olive Oil: With the food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil in a steady stream. Continue processing until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
  5. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pulse a few more times to combine.
  6. Serve or Store: Use immediately or transfer the pesto to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

About the Main Ingredients:

  • Basil: The star ingredient of pesto, basil contributes its fresh, herbaceous flavor and vibrant green color.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and nutty richness to the pesto.
  • Olive Oil: Provides smoothness and helps bind the ingredients together, enhancing the texture and flavor of the pesto.
  • Nuts: Pine nuts or walnuts add a subtle nuttiness and texture to the pesto, complementing the basil and cheese flavors.
  • Garlic: Adds a pungent kick and depth of flavor to the pesto sauce.

Enjoy your homemade basil pesto tossed with pasta, spread on bruschetta, or stirred into soups for a burst of fresh Mediterranean taste!

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