Description
A fresh, aromatic sauce made with basil, garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, and nuts. Perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or using as a dip. This classic Italian pesto is vibrant, flavorful, and easy to make at home.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (makes about 1 cup):
For the Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 2–3 garlic cloves
- ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts/almonds for a nut-free version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, optional
- 1–2 teaspoons lemon juice, optional for brightness
Optional for Serving:
- 12 oz pasta of choice (spaghetti, penne, fusilli)
- Additional grated Parmesan
- Toasted pine nuts or nuts of choice for garnish
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pesto
In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, garlic, and nuts. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
Step 2: Add Cheese and Oil
Add Parmesan cheese. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth sauce. Scrape down the sides as needed.
Step 3: Season
Add salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using) to taste. Pulse briefly to combine.
Step 4: Toss with Pasta
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain, reserving a little pasta water. Toss pasta with pesto, adding a splash of reserved water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and toasted nuts on top. Pesto can also be used as a spread, dip, or sauce for grilled vegetables.
Notes
- Storage: Pesto keeps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning.
- Nut Alternatives: Walnuts, cashews, or sunflower seeds work well if pine nuts aren’t available.
- Make Ahead: Prepare pesto a day ahead for flavors to meld. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (if making pasta)
- Category: Sauce / Condiment
- Method: No-cook / Blended
- Cuisine: Italian