Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe
A classic Fresh Basil Pesto recipe combining fragrant basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a vibrant, versatile sauce perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup of pesto 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more as needed
- 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Pulse pine nuts and garlic: In a small food processor or blender, add the pine nuts and garlic cloves, and gently pulse to break up the mixture until coarsely chopped and chunky.
- Add basil and seasonings: Add the fresh basil leaves, salt, and lemon juice to the food processor, and pulse again to combine and break up the basil leaves into the pine nut mixture.
- Incorporate olive oil: With the food processor running at low speed, slowly pour in the olive oil through the feed tube or opening. If no opening is available, add the oil in batches, pulsing between additions until fully incorporated.
- Mix in parmesan cheese: Add the finely grated parmesan cheese to the food processor and process again until the pesto is smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or olive oil as needed.
- Store or serve: Use the basil pesto immediately or store in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers or ice cube trays for up to 6 months.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and texture.
- Toast pine nuts lightly for a nuttier flavor before pulsing.
- Adjust olive oil quantity to achieve desired pesto consistency.
- Add a pinch of black pepper to enhance the taste if preferred.
- Store leftover pesto covered with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning.
Keywords: fresh basil pesto, pesto recipe, basil sauce, Italian sauce, homemade pesto
Find it online: https://zarameals.com/fresh-basil-pesto-recipe/
