Basil Pesto

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of fresh basil leaves—fragrant, vibrant, and bursting with flavor. And what better way to capture the essence of this beloved herb than by making your own homemade basil pesto? Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the art of crafting this classic Italian condiment—a simple yet versatile sauce that adds a burst of freshness and flavor to any dish.

The Beauty of Basil: At the heart of every great basil pesto lies, of course, the star ingredient itself: fresh basil leaves. Rich in essential oils, vitamins, and antioxidants, basil not only lends its distinctive flavor to the pesto but also brings a host of health benefits to the table. From promoting digestion to boosting immunity, this aromatic herb is a true powerhouse of nutrition and flavor.

A Symphony of Flavors: What sets homemade basil pesto apart is its delightful combination of flavors and textures. In addition to fresh basil, our recipe features grated Parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and pine nuts or walnuts (toasted for an extra layer of depth). Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious symphony of flavors—creamy and nutty, with a hint of garlic and a touch of saltiness from the cheese.

Simple Yet Versatile: One of the great things about homemade basil pesto is its versatility. While it’s traditionally served as a sauce for pasta, this flavorful condiment can be used in countless other ways. Spread it on sandwiches or wraps, dollop it onto grilled meats or vegetables, swirl it into soups or stews, or toss it with roasted potatoes or fresh tomatoes for a burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless!

Wholesome and Nutritious: Not only is homemade basil pesto delicious, but it’s also packed with wholesome nutrients. Extra virgin olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, while nuts add protein, fiber, and essential minerals. Fresh basil contributes vitamins A and K, as well as antioxidants that support overall health and well-being. And let’s not forget about the calcium-rich Parmesan cheese, which adds a creamy richness to the pesto.

Homemade basil pesto is a celebration of freshness, flavor, and simplicity—a true culinary gem that’s easy to make and incredibly versatile. Whether enjoyed as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for veggies, this classic condiment is sure to elevate any dish to new heights of deliciousness. So why wait? Grab your mortar and pestle, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. Your taste buds will thank you!

Basil Pesto

Recipe by wildfoodjourneyCourse: Sides/Condiments

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking timeminutes

Calories

120-140

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts

• 3 garlic cloves, peeled

• salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• Rinse the fresh basil leaves under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Remove any thick stems, as they can make the pesto bitter.
• If using pine nuts or walnuts, you can enhance their flavor by toasting them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are lightly golden brown. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
• In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, toasted nuts, garlic cloves, salt, and pepper. Pulse a few times to chop the ingredients.
• With the food processor or blender running, slowly pour in the extra virgin olive oil in a steady stream. Continue blending until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl or blender as needed.
• If the pesto is too thick, you can add more olive oil, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can add more basil leaves or Parmesan cheese.
• Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. You can also add more garlic or Parmesan cheese for a stronger flavor, if desired.
• Transfer the basil pesto to a clean jar or airtight container. If not using immediately, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze it in ice cube trays for longer storage. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before using.

Notes

• Use your homemade basil pesto as a flavorful sauce for pasta, spread it on sandwiches or wraps, drizzle it over grilled meats or vegetables, or toss it with roasted potatoes or fresh tomatoes for a burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless!
• The calorie count for basil pesto can vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used. However, a rough estimate for a 2-tablespoon serving of homemade basil pesto is around 120-140 calories.