pesto sauce
Pesto sauce brings together basil, olive oil, pine nuts and parmesan for a quick, flavor-packed recipe. Ready in minutes!
Ingredients
Method
- Add fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic to a food processor or blender.
- Pulse several times until the ingredients are coarsely chopped. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- Add grated parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Pulse a few more times to combine.
- While blending, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until a smooth, creamy sauce forms. Stop to scrape down the bowl if needed.
- Taste and adjust salt or parmesan cheese as desired. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
The classic pesto sauce is a staple in Italian cuisine, prized for its fresh flavor and impressive versatility. Whether tossed with pasta, used as a sandwich spread, or drizzled over roasted vegetables, pesto brings a burst of brightness to any dish.
Tips for the Perfect Pesto
To keep the vibrant green color, use very fresh basil leaves and avoid over-blending, which can cause oxidation. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, try blanching the garlic cloves in boiling water for 10 seconds before adding them to the mix. Should pine nuts be out of reach, swap them for walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a different—but equally tasty—twist. For those with dairy restrictions, replace parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan hard cheese alternative.Preparation Insights
For the best texture, pulse ingredients rather than blending continuously. This helps achieve a slightly coarse pesto, which clings beautifully to pasta. Gradually streaming in the olive oil as you blend creates a creamy, emulsified sauce.Serving Suggestions & Variations
- Stir pesto into cooked pasta, risotto, or gnocchi for a fast, flavorful meal.
- Spread it on grilled cheese sandwiches or avocado toast for an herby upgrade.
- Use as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, or tofu before grilling.
- Mix with yogurt, sour cream, or ricotta for a vibrant dip or a savory swirl into soups.
