About
This recipe combines fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan, garlic, and high-quality olive oil, blending them into a vibrant green paste that’s rich and nutty. It’s perfect for pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables.
The process is simple and takes just a few minutes from start to finish, making it a go-to option for busy cooks who want a fresh, homemade sauce with minimal effort. The result is a deliciously aromatic pesto that adds a gourmet touch to everyday meals.
Cook time: 10 min
Difficulty: easy
This recipe will yield approximately 3/4 cup (185g) of pesto sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups packed (60g) fresh basil leaves
- ⅓ cup (80ml) olive oil
- ¼ cup (30g) pine nuts
- ⅓ cup (20g) Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 clove garlic
Step-by-step
1
Rinse the fresh basil leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry using paper towels or a salad spinner to ensure they’re completely dry.
2
In a food processor or blender, add the basil leaves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic clove, olive oil, and salt. Pulse the mixture a few times to combine and break down the ingredients into a coarse paste.
3
Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may add more salt, Parmesan, or even a splash of lemon juice for a bit of acidity.
4
The pesto is ready to use immediately with pasta, spread on bread, or as a sauce for meats and vegetables. To store, transfer it to an airtight container and top with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for longer storage.
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