If you’re looking for a burst of fresh flavor, look no further than this basil pesto recipe. Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or drizzling over grilled vegetables, this sauce is both simple and delicious. With its vibrant green color and aromatic taste, homemade pesto will elevate your dishes and impress your guests. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this classic Italian sauce!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of basil pesto, serving 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with no cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
One serving (2 tablespoons) of basil pesto contains approximately 150 calories, 14g fat, 2g carbohydrates, 1g protein, and 0g fiber. This is based on a serving size intended for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Start by gathering all your ingredients on a clean countertop.
- Rinse the basil leaves under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, and minced garlic.
- Pulse the mixture several times until it’s finely chopped.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure even mixing.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until fully incorporated.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and pulse until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, blending again briefly.
- Transfer the pesto to a container and cover tightly.
- Store in the refrigerator or use immediately on your favorite dish.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can replace pine nuts with walnuts or almonds. Nutritional yeast can substitute Parmesan cheese for a vegan option. Feel free to experiment with herbs like parsley or spinach for different flavor profiles.
Serving and Pairings
Basil pesto pairs wonderfully with pasta, grilled chicken, or fish. It also makes a great topping for bruschetta, a flavor enhancer for soups, or a spread for sandwiches. The possibilities are endless!
Storage and Reheating
Store basil pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can freeze it in ice cube trays for longer storage. Simply thaw and use as needed. Reheating is not necessary; pesto is best served fresh.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using wilted basil will result in an off flavor.
- Over-processing can make the pesto too smooth; aim for a slightly chunky texture.
- Not seasoning enough can leave the pesto flat.
- Skipping the garlic will diminish the classic pesto taste.
- Using low-quality olive oil affects the overall flavor.
Helpful Tips
- For a creamier texture, add a bit of cream cheese.
- Toast the pine nuts lightly to enhance their flavor.
- Use a high-speed blender if you don’t have a food processor.
- Incorporate lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
FAQs
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Using dried basil is not recommended, as it lacks the fresh and vibrant flavor that fresh basil provides. Fresh herbs are key to a great pesto.
How long does homemade pesto last?
Homemade pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays.
Can I make pesto without nuts?
Yes, you can make nut-free pesto by omitting the nuts and adding extra cheese or nutritional yeast for flavor and texture.
What dishes can I use basil pesto in?
Basil pesto is versatile and can be used in pasta, as a pizza sauce, on sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables.
Is basil pesto vegan?
Traditional basil pesto contains cheese, making it non-vegan. However, you can easily make a vegan version by replacing cheese with nutritional yeast.
Conclusion
This basil pesto recipe is a simple yet flavorful addition to many dishes. With fresh ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy the taste of Italy right at home. Whether drizzled over pasta or used as a sandwich spread, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Basil Pesto
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients on a clean countertop.
- Rinse the basil leaves under cold water and pat them dry.
- In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, and minced garlic.
- Pulse until finely chopped.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula.
- With the processor running, drizzle in the olive oil until combined.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and pulse until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the pesto to a container and cover tightly.
- Store in the refrigerator or use immediately.
