Basil Pesto Recipe
Unleash your culinary creativity! This aromatic basil pesto is a must-have in your kitchen. It’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also adds a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes—from pasta to sandwiches. Why settle for store-bought when you can create a fresh, vibrant sauce at home?
Recipe Information
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- Fresh Basil: 2 handfuls
- Parmesan Cheese: 50 grams, cut into small pieces
- Olive Oil: 100 milliliters
- Pine Nuts: 2 tablespoons
- Black Pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Start by cutting the Parmesan cheese into small pieces.
- In a dry skillet, toast the pine nuts over medium heat until they are golden brown.
- In a blender, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts, then blend for about 10 seconds.
- Next, add black pepper and olive oil to the mixture. Continue blending until you achieve a smooth pesto texture.
Notes
You can adjust the amount of olive oil to achieve your preferred consistency. For a creamier pesto, add more oil.
Recipe Tips
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a clove of garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Nutritional Information
This recipe contains approximately 120 calories per serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other nuts instead of pine nuts?
- Yes, walnuts or almonds are great alternatives.
- How should I store homemade pesto?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
- What dishes can I use pesto in?
- Pesto is perfect for pasta, sandwiches, salads, and even as a marinade for grilled meats.
- Is pesto gluten-free?
- Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free.
- Can I make pesto vegan?
- Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based cheese substitute.