Traditional Basil Pesto

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 5 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you’ve ever tasted a spoonful of fresh basil pesto, you know the magic it can bring to a dish. This traditional recipe is simple, yet packs a punch of flavor that can instantly elevate your pasta, sandwiches, or just about anything you pair it with.

Ingredients for Traditional Basil Pesto

Basil leaves are the star of the show, bringing that signature fresh and peppery flavor. Choose bright, unblemished leaves for the best results. Pine nuts add a rich, buttery texture and subtle nutty taste that complements the basil beautifully. Garlic gives the pesto its pungent kick, balancing the richness of the nuts and cheese. Parmesan cheese offers a salty, savory depth that ties everything together. Extra virgin olive oil is crucial for creating a smooth, luscious texture. Finally, a touch of salt and pepper helps to enhance all these flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • Toast your pine nuts lightly before using. It enhances their flavor and gives your pesto an extra depth.
  • If your pesto is too thick, add a tablespoon of pasta water or more olive oil to thin it out gently.
  • For a twist, try substituting half the basil with fresh spinach or arugula for a different flavor profile.
  • Ensure your basil leaves are dry before processing to prevent the pesto from becoming mushy.

Serving Suggestions

This pesto is a classic pairing with pasta, of course. Toss it with spaghetti or penne, and you’ve got a meal. It also makes a fantastic topping for grilled chicken or fish. Spread it on sandwiches or toast for a burst of flavor, or swirl it into soups for an herbaceous lift.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?
Yes, but be cautious not to over-blend. You want some texture in your pesto, not a complete puree.
How can I store leftover pesto?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. A thin layer of olive oil on top can help preserve its color and flavor.
Is there a nut-free version?
Absolutely! You can substitute pine nuts with sunflower seeds or simply omit nuts entirely for a still-delicious sauce.

Traditional Basil Pesto Recipe Walkthrough

Start off by gathering all your ingredients; having everything ready makes the process a breeze. Place the basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic into a food processor. Pulse them a few times until they're coarsely chopped. You want pieces but not a paste just yet.

Next, add in the Parmesan cheese. Give it a few more pulses until it's all combined nicely. This helps the cheese evenly distribute its salty goodness throughout the mix.

Now, with the processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Keep an eye on the texture – it should turn into a smooth, cohesive sauce. Stop and scrape down the sides if you notice any bits sticking around.

Once you’re happy with the consistency, taste it. This is where the salt and pepper come in. Add them in small amounts and adjust according to your taste. Pulse a couple more times to mix them in, then give it one last taste to ensure everything's just right.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Uses fresh, vibrant ingredients that sing with flavor.
  • Customizable to suit your taste preferences.
  • Requires just a handful of pantry staples.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Combine basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor.
2. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
3. Add Parmesan cheese and process until combined.
4. Slowly add olive oil while processing until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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