Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe
This classic Basil Pesto recipe blends fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil into a vibrant, aromatic sauce perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a flavorful dip. The simple preparation combines to create a rich and fresh condiment that elevates any dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 1/2 cups of pesto 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Basil Pesto Ingredients
- 5 cups Packed Fresh Basil Leaves
- 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 cup Olive Oil
- 1/2 cup Pine Nuts
- 8 Garlic Cloves, peeled and finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Basil Leaves: If needed, wash and thoroughly dry your basil leaves to remove any dirt or moisture. Set them aside.
- Toast Pine Nuts: Place the measured pine nuts in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Stir frequently and toast them until they become lightly browned and release a fragrant aroma, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Rough Chop Basil Mixture: Add basil leaves, garlic, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil into a food processor. Pulse briefly until the basil is coarsely chopped and the ingredients begin to combine.
- Add Pine Nuts and Blend: Add the toasted pine nuts to the food processor and continue to pulse until the mixture reaches a finely chopped, but still textured consistency.
- Season Pesto: Taste the pesto and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
- Store Pesto: Transfer the pesto to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well and develop flavor within the fridge for up to one week.
Notes
- To prevent the pesto from browning, pour a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing the container.
- You can substitute walnuts or cashews if pine nuts are unavailable, though this will change the traditional flavor slightly.
- For a dairy-free version, omit Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast.
- Pesto freezes well; store in ice cube trays and freeze for convenient portioning.
- Use fresh, vibrant basil leaves for the best flavor; wilted or old leaves will result in a dull taste.
Keywords: Basil Pesto, Homemade Pesto, Italian Sauce, Basil Sauce, Pesto Recipe, Pasta Sauce
Find it online: https://frommamamaya.com/fresh-basil-pesto-recipe/
