Simple Homemade Pesto Recipe
A vibrant and fresh sauce that brings a burst of flavor to any dish, perfect for pasta, sandwiches, and grilled vegetables.
Servings: 4 servings
Equipment
- Food Processor
- Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh Basil Leaves Packed tightly for best flavor.
- 3 cloves Garlic Adjust based on preference for garlic flavor.
- 1/4 cup Pine Nuts Lightly toasted for enhanced flavor.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated for best results.
- 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil High-quality for best flavor.
- to taste Salt Adjust according to taste.
- to taste Black Pepper Freshly ground for best flavor.
Instructions
- Wash the fresh basil leaves thoroughly and pat them dry.
- Peel the garlic cloves and smash them lightly if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes until golden brown.
- In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, and toasted pine nuts. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until emulsified.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and pulse until well incorporated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Transfer the pesto to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator or use immediately.
Notes
Store leftover pesto in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze in ice cube trays for easy portioning.