If you are looking to add a burst of fresh flavor to your meals this easy homemade pesto recipe is just what you need.
Perfect for enhancing a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to salads, pesto shines especially bright when paired with our collection of pasta recipes.
A classic pesto is a fantastic way to use up an abundance of fresh basil from your garden.
With just a handful of ingredients and a food processor, you can make your own pesto in no time.
How do you make homemade pesto?
Instructions:
Toast pine nuts by placing them on a microwave safe plate or small bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds.
Stir and microwave again for another 30 seconds or until walnuts smell fragrant and are golden brown. Do not overcook. Allow pine nuts to cool slightly. You can also do this in a small frying pan on the stove top.
Place basil, 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese in the bowl of a food processor.
Turn the food processor on and drizzle with a steady stream of additional olive oil as the mixture processes until the desired consistency is reached.
Transfer your pesto to a mason jar or air tight container.
Because fresh pesto will brown, drizzle a little olive oil on top of the pesto to prevent and stop the oxidation process.
Keep leftover pesto refrigerated.
Pesto can be enjoyed room temperature, warmed up or chilled. You will need about 2/3 cups of pesto for every pound of pasta you make. Be sure to retain about a half a cup of the pasta water.
Ways to Use Your Homemade Basil Pesto
This easy pesto recipe is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Pasta: Toss pesto with your favorite pasta for a quick and delicious meal. Add grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for extra flavor.
- Sandwiches: Spread pesto on sandwiches or wraps for a fresh and zesty twist.
- Pizza: Use pesto as a base sauce for homemade pizzas. Top with mozzarella, tomatoes, and arugula for a simple yet flavorful pizza.
- Salads: Mix pesto with a little extra olive oil and vinegar to create a salad dressing.
- Dips: Serve pesto as a dip for fresh vegetables, crackers, or bread.
FAQs
How long does pesto last?
Store your fresh pesto in the refrigerator in an airtight container for about a week.
Should you wash basil before making pesto?
Yes, you should always wash basil before making pesto. Gently rinse the basil leaves under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue. Shake off excess water and place the basil leaves on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat them dry gently to avoid bruising the delicate leaves.
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Easy Homemade Basil Pesto Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ½ to 3 cups of basil leaves - fresh, washed, dried, packed
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ cup pine nuts
- ½ cup grated parmigiano reggiano or pecorino romano
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, if desired
Instructions
- Toast pine nuts by placing them on a microwave safe plate or small bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds. Stir and microwave again for another 30 seconds or until walnuts smell fragrant and are golden brown. Do not overcook.
- Allow pine nuts to cool slightly. You can also do this in a small frying pan on the stove top.
- Place basil, 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese in the bowl of a food processor.
- Turn the food processor on and drizzle with a steady stream of additional olive oil as the mixture processes until the desired consistency is reached.
- Transfer your pesto to a mason jar or air tight container.
- Because fresh pesto will brown, drizzle a little olive oil on top of the pesto to prevent and stop the oxidation process.
- Keep leftover pesto refrigerated.
Notes
Store your fresh pesto in the refrigerator in an airtight container for about a week.
You will need about 2/3 cups of pesto for every pound of pasta you make. Be sure to retain about a half a cup of the pasta water.