Classic Basil Pesto Sauce
Elevate your dishes with the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Classic Basil Pesto Sauce, a simple yet irresistible recipe that's ready in just 10 minutes! This traditional Italian sauce combines fresh basil leaves, creamy pine nuts, and rich Parmesan cheese, all blended seamlessly with garlic, lemon juice, and velvety extra virgin olive oil. Lightly toasting the pine nuts adds a deep, nutty flavor while a burst of citrus brightens every spoonful. Perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or drizzling over grilled meats and veggies, this versatile homemade pesto is a must-have condiment for your kitchen. Plus, it's easy to make ahead and store for quick and delicious meals anytime!
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Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 cups Pine nuts
- 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves Garlic cloves
- 0.5 cups Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
Directions
Step 1
Begin by washing and thoroughly drying the fresh basil leaves to ensure they are clean and free from any moisture.
Step 2
In a dry skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the pine nuts for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly.
Step 3
In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves. Pulse these ingredients until they are coarsely chopped.
Step 4
While the food processor is running, gradually add the extra virgin olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 5
Add the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to the mixture and pulse a few more times to incorporate.
Step 6
Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.
Step 7
Transfer the pesto sauce to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.
Step 8
Use this vibrant basil pesto sauce to enhance the flavor of your favorite pasta dishes, spread it over grilled meats, or mix it into mayonnaise for a delicious spread.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (284.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1600.8 |
| Total Fat 170.5g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 27.3g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 23.0g | |
| Cholesterol 40mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1862.8mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 13.5g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 4.2g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 2.8g | |
| Protein 27.0g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 515.4mg | 0% |
| Iron 5.3mg | 0% |
| Potassium 577.7mg | 0% |
Source of Calories