Homemade Basil Pesto Recipe

4 stars
3.91 (14)
Homemade Basil Pesto Recipe
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
25mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on November 26, 2023

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

  1. In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, garlic cloves, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese.
  2. Pulse until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
  3. While the food processor is running, slowly add the olive oil in a steady stream.
  4. Continue to process until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, and blend for a few more seconds to combine.
  6. Transfer the pesto to a jar or airtight container, and store in the refrigerator.
  7. 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.