Description
Elevate your dishes with this vibrant, aromatic pesto made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a pasta sauce, sandwich spread, or drizzle over grilled vegetables.
Ingredients
-
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed (can substitute half with baby spinach)
-
1/2 cup freshly grated Romano or Parmesan cheese (about 2 ounces)
-
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
-
1/3 cup pine nuts (can substitute with chopped walnuts)
-
3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
-
1/4 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
-
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or more to taste
Instructions
-
Place basil leaves and pine nuts into the bowl of a food processor and pulse several times.
-
Add minced garlic, grated cheese, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
-
With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
-
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
-
Transfer to a jar or airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pesto before sealing the container.
For a smoother texture, add a tablespoon of warm water if needed.
Pesto can also be frozen in ice cube trays for convenient single servings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian