Fresh Basil Pesto Freezer Directions
Capture the vibrant flavors of summer year-round with this *Fresh Basil Pesto Freezer Directions* recipe! Made with fragrant basil leaves, nutty toasted pine nuts, and sharp Parmesan cheese, this classic Italian sauce is irresistible when blended with a touch of extra-virgin olive oil and fresh garlic. Perfect for meal prepping, it includes easy-to-follow instructions for freezing in portioned containers or ice cube trays, so you can enjoy homemade pesto in any season. Whether tossed with pasta, spread on sandwiches, or drizzled over roasted veggies, this freezer-friendly recipe ensures bold, fresh flavors are always at your fingertips. Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal effort, it’s a must-have addition to any home cook’s repertoire.
Try SnapCalorie's FREE AI assisted nutrition tracking free in the App store or on Android.
Scan with your phone to download!
Ingredients
- 2 cups, packed Fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 cups, grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.25 cups, toasted Pine nuts
- 2 whole Garlic cloves
- 0.5 cups Extra-virgin olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Water (optional, for thinning)
Directions
Step 1
Wash and thoroughly dry the fresh basil leaves to remove any dirt or moisture.
Step 2
Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over low heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and aromatic. Allow them to cool.
Step 3
In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
Step 4
With the food processor running on low, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is well blended and forms a smooth paste. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even processing.
Step 5
Season the pesto with salt and black pepper to taste, and pulse a few more times to combine. If the pesto is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time to achieve the desired consistency.
Step 6
Divide the pesto into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays. Leave a small amount of headspace if using containers to allow for expansion during freezing.
Step 7
Seal the containers tightly or wrap the ice cube tray with plastic wrap, then place them in the freezer. Pesto can be frozen for up to 6 months.
Step 8
To use, thaw the pesto in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Stir well before serving.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (274.4g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1496.2 |
| Total Fat 156.7g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 27.0g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 11.5g | |
| Cholesterol 44.5mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1506.0mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 9.9g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 2.9g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 1.2g | |
| Protein 22.4g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 515.5mg | 0% |
| Iron 3.4mg | 0% |
| Potassium 360.7mg | 0% |
Source of Calories