Learn how to make fresh and flavorful homemade basil pesto with this easy-to-follow recipe. Made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, this pesto sauce is perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or using as a dipping sauce. It's a versatile and vibrant sauce that will take your meals to the next level.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, garlic cloves, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese.
- Pulse until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
- While the food processor is running, slowly add the olive oil in a steady stream.
- Continue to process until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper, and blend for a few more seconds to combine.
- Transfer the pesto to a jar or airtight container, and store in the refrigerator.
- Use as a sauce for pasta, spread on sandwiches, or as a delicious dipping sauce.
Interesting Facts
Pesto originated in Genoa, Italy, and is a popular sauce in Italian cuisine.
Traditional pesto is made with a mortar and pestle, but a food processor or blender can also be used for convenience.
Basil is the main ingredient in pesto and is known for its aromatic and sweet flavor.
Pine nuts add a rich and buttery taste to the pesto sauce.
Parmesan cheese enhances the savory and umami flavors of the pesto.
Pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for longer shelf life.