Classic Basil Pesto Sauce
Bright, fresh, and bursting with bold Italian flavors, this Classic Basil Pesto Sauce recipe is a must-try for any home cook. Made with fragrant basil leaves, creamy toasted pine nuts, sharp Parmesan cheese, and zesty garlic, this no-cook sauce comes together in just 10 minutes, making it the perfect companion for busy weeknights or elaborate dinners. Enhanced with extra virgin olive oil, a splash of lemon juice, and a touch of seasoning, this versatile pesto is irresistibly smooth and packed with a balance of vibrant and nutty notes. Whether tossed with pasta, dolloped on grilled meats, or used as a spread for sandwiches, this homemade pesto is a delicious way to elevate almost any dish. Store it in the fridge or freeze for future use—it's a true kitchen staple! Keywords: basil pesto, homemade pesto sauce, fresh pesto recipe, Italian sauce, quick pesto recipe.
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Recipe Information
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
Instructions
Begin by washing and thoroughly drying the fresh basil leaves to ensure they are clean and free from any moisture.
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.
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.
While the food processor is running, gradually add the extra virgin olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to the mixture and pulse a few more times to incorporate.
Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.
Transfer the pesto sauce to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.
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
Calories |
1601 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 170.5 g | 219% | |
| Saturated Fat | 27.3 g | 136% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 23.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 40 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 1863 mg | 81% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 13.5 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.2 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.8 g | ||
| Protein | 27.0 g | 54% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 515 mg | 40% | |
| Iron | 5.3 mg | 29% | |
| Potassium | 578 mg | 12% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
