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–+ servings
Basil Pesto

Basil Pesto: Fresh, Vibrant Flavor for Every Dish

This homemade Basil Pesto is fresh, flavorful, and perfect for enhancing any dish with its vibrant taste.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 80
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto
  • 2 cups Fresh Basil Leaves Small-leaf basil is recommended.
  • 1/3 cup Pine Nuts Can substitute with walnuts or cashews.
  • 2-3 cloves Garlic Chopped for best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Use vegetarian Parmesan if desired.
  • 1 tsp Coarse Salt Enhances flavors.
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Drizzle slowly for smooth blending.
Optional Variations
  • 1 cup Kale or Arugula Can be substituted for basil.
  • 1/3 cup Sunflower or Pumpkin Seeds Nut substitute for allergies.
  • 1 avocado Mashed Avocado Increases creaminess.

Equipment

  • Food Processor

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Basil Pesto
  1. Chill your food processor bowl and blade in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes.
  2. Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-4 minutes.
  3. In the chilled food processor, combine fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, chopped garlic, grated Parmesan, and coarse salt.
  4. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the processor runs until smooth.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before final blending.
  6. Transfer pesto to an airtight container, drizzle olive oil on top if storing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 70mgVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze in portions for longer storage. Use chilled equipment to maintain color.

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