Basil 101: Pesto
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Total Time
5 mins
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Servings
1 cup
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Cuisine
Vegetarian
Basil 101: Pesto
Description
Basil 101: Pesto is made by first pulsing toasted pine nuts, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor until finely chopped. Fresh basil leaves are then added and blended until combined. While the processor runs, extra-virgin olive oil is drizzled in to create a smooth, emulsified sauce. Parmesan cheese can be mixed in at the end for a richer flavor and creamier texture. Adjusting the amount of olive oil can control the pesto's thickness, making it as smooth or rustic as desired.
This pesto offers a fresh and herbaceous flavor profile highlighted by the pine nuts and garlic, with brightness from the lemon juice. It serves well tossed with hot pasta, as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables, or spread on sandwiches. The sauce's freshness makes it a seasonal favorite during basil's peak availability.
Because it includes fresh and perishable ingredients, storing pesto in an airtight container with a drizzle of olive oil on top can help preserve its color and flavor for a few days in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen in portions for later use.
Ingredients
- ½ cup pine nuts toasted
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh
- 1 garlic small clove
- ¼ teaspoon salt sea salt
- black pepper freshly ground
- 2 cups basil fresh leaves
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil plus more for a smoother pesto
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese optional, grated
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the pine nuts, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and several grinds of pepper. Pulse until well chopped.
- Add the basil and pulse until combined.
- With the food processor running, drizzle in the olive oil and pulse until combined. Add the Parmesan cheese, if using, and pulse to briefly combine. For a smoother pesto, add more olive oil.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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