pesto with basil recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best pesto with basil recipe

I’m so excited to share this classic pesto with basil recipe with you all! As a busy mom of three, I’m always on the lookout for quick and delicious meals that my family will love. This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

The rich flavors of basil, garlic, and olive oil come together to create a sauce that’s both healthy and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and every time it turns out perfectly.

My kids devour it in seconds, and I love watching them enjoy their veggies (well, sort of!) The best part? It’s packed with nutrients from the fresh basil leaves, which are an excellent source of vitamins A and K.

This sauce is also vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – pesto is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against cell damage and reduce inflammation. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and experience the magic of pesto for yourself!

My family loves it when I serve this sauce over pasta, but you can also use it as a dip for veggies or pita chips. It’s truly versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. One of the things I love about pesto is how adaptable it is to different tastes – if you prefer a stronger flavor, simply add more garlic or lemon juice.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for added depth. But trust me, the original recipe is perfect just the way it is.

Classic Basil Pesto Recipe

Classic Basil Pesto Recipe

4.8 from 1967 votes

A vibrant and flavorful basil pesto recipe that’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a spread. This recipe uses fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a rich and aromatic sauce.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
1/4 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic, peeled
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Start by toasting the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat.
2Stir them frequently to prevent burning.
3They are done when they are lightly golden and fragrant.
4Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
5In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, and garlic.
6Pulse until finely chopped.
7Scrape down the sides of the container as needed.
8This should take about 1-2 minutes.
9Add the Parmesan cheese and pulse again until well combined.
10This should take about 30 seconds.
11With the food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the feed tube.
12Process until the pesto is smooth and well emulsified.
13This should take about 1-2 minutes.
14Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
15If the pesto is too thick, add a little more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.
16Transfer the pesto to a bowl, cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent browning, and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
17This allows the flavors to meld together.
18Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for up to three months.

🔧Equipment

Food processor or blender
Mixing bowl
Spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 32g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 10mg🧂Sodium: 350mg🌾Total Carbs: 8g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 9g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. To make it nut-free, omit the pine nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds. Always check for any allergens before serving.

Watch Video Of How Classic Basil Pesto Recipe Works

This pesto with basil recipe has become a staple in our household because of its ease of preparation and versatility. You can serve it over pasta or use it as a dip for veggies – making it perfect for any occasion!

The best part? It stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freezes well for up to three months.

When reheating leftover pesto sauce, simply toss it with some olive oil and lemon juice to restore its vibrant flavor. For serving ideas, try pairing this sauce with roasted vegetables like zucchini noodles or grilled chicken breast for added protein.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Basil Pesto

Q: What’s the difference between pesto and other green sauces?

Pesto is made with fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, pine nuts (or walnuts), Parmesan cheese (or other hard cheeses), and olive oil – giving it a distinctive flavor that’s hard to replicate.

Q: Can I make pesto without a blender?

You can use a food processor or even a hand mixer to grind the ingredients into a paste – but be aware that the texture might not be as smooth.

Q: How long does pesto stay fresh in the fridge?

Pesto typically lasts 3-5 days in an airtight container in the fridge – but if you notice any mold or an off smell, discard it immediately!

Q: Can I freeze pesto?

Absolutely! Simply scoop the mixture into ice cube trays or ziplock bags for later use – just thaw when needed.

Q: What are some good substitutes for pine nuts?

You can use almonds or cashews instead of pine nuts if you prefer – they’ll still give your pesto that nutty flavor without breaking the bank.

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