Name: Homemade Proper Pesto Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh basil leaves; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup pine nuts; 3 cloves garlic; 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Learn how to make your own delicious proper pesto with fresh ingredients. This homemade pesto recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for adding to pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or using as a dip.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup pine nuts
3 cloves garlic
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

In a food processor or blender, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Continue blending until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final pulse to incorporate the seasoning.
Transfer the pesto to a jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Serve with pasta, on sandwiches, or as a dip. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

Pesto originated in Genoa, Italy, and traditionally includes basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.

The word 'pesto' comes from the Italian verb 'pestare', which means 'to crush' or 'to pound'.

Pine nuts, also known as pignoli, are the traditional choice for pesto, but you can also try using walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.

Properly storing pesto in the refrigerator with a layer of olive oil on top can help keep it fresh and vibrant for longer.

Pesto can be frozen in ice cube trays for convenient portioning. Simply pop out a cube and thaw when you need it.

Pesto is not only great with pasta but also delicious in salads, on grilled veggies, or as a topping for pizza.