Description
Classic Basil Pesto is a fresh, vibrant Italian sauce made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. I create this simple yet luxurious sauce to elevate pasta, bread, and grilled dishes with rich herbal flavor and creamy texture.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 2–3 garlic cloves
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and dry basil leaves.
- Toast pine nuts lightly.
- Add basil, garlic, and pine nuts to blender.
- Pulse until chopped.
- Slowly drizzle olive oil while blending.
- Add Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning and serve fresh.
Notes
Use fresh basil for best flavor. Toast pine nuts for deeper taste. Store pesto with a layer of olive oil on top. You can substitute walnuts if needed. Freeze in small portions for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tbsp
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 14
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 5