Description
This really easy pesto recipe is fresh, bright, and packed with vibrant basil flavor. Made with simple ingredients like pine nuts, basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, it’s a perfect homemade alternative to store-bought pesto. Ready in just 15 minutes, this versatile sauce is ideal for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip.
Ingredients
For the Pesto
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 1 cup tightly packed fresh basil leaves
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Toast the Pine Nuts: Place the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Watch them carefully and toss frequently. After about 5-10 minutes, they will turn lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Prepare Ingredients: While the pine nuts are cooling, gather the basil leaves, freshly grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Have your olive oil measured and ready.
- Combine in Food Processor: Add the toasted pine nuts, basil, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper into the bowl of a food processor. Pulse several times until the ingredients start to combine and chop evenly.
- Incorporate Olive Oil: While the motor is running on low speed, slowly drizzle the olive oil into the processor. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides to ensure even mixing. Continue processing until the mixture is smooth with no large pieces remaining.
- Adjust and Store: Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Transfer the pesto to a jar and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to one week.
Notes
- Toasting pine nuts is optional but enhances their flavor and adds depth to the pesto.
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best taste.
- You can substitute pine nuts with walnuts or almonds if desired.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides better flavor and texture compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Store pesto in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to help preserve its color and freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
