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:
- Prepare the Basil: Wash the basil leaves thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
- 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.
- Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, nuts, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
- 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.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pulse a few more times to combine.
- 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!
