Basil and Walnut Pesto
User Reviews
3.9
Basil and Walnut Pesto
Description
This pesto combines four packed cups of fresh basil with toasted walnuts to provide a nutty base enriched by parmesan cheese. Garlic adds pungency while lemon zest and juice contribute brightness and acidity. A pinch of red pepper flakes brings a subtle warmth without overpowering the herbaceous flavors.
All ingredients, except the olive oil, are pulsed together in a food processor until roughly combined. Olive oil is then gradually blended in to create a loose paste that can be thinned further with more oil if desired. The mixture has a slightly coarse texture from the basil leaves and walnuts, complemented by the rich, salty Parmesan.
The finished pesto can be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator. To prevent discoloration, the surface can be smoothed and covered with olive oil. It suits pasta, sandwiches, or as a sauce addition to enhance many dishes with herbal freshness and creamy nuttiness.
Store pesto in a jar with a tight lid, cover the surface with olive oil to prevent oxidation, and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Ingredients
- 4 cups basil packed leaves
- 3 cloves garlic peeled
- ½ cup walnuts toasted
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese reggiano
- lemon zest and juice of one lemon
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil more as needed
- ½ teaspoon black pepper freshly cracked
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt or 1/4 teaspoon Morton's Kosher Salt, Diamond brand
Instructions
- To the bowl of a food processor or Vitamix blender add basil, garlic, walnuts, parmesan, lemon zest, juice, and red pepper flakes.
- Pulse a few times to break down the basil.
- In a steady stream add olive oil, pulsing until olive oil is blended into other ingredients and mixture forms a loose paste. If your pesto is too thick, add additional olive oil one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Enjoy!
Notes
- Store the pesto in a sealed jar and cover the top with olive oil to prevent browning.
- Keep refrigerated and use within 5 days for best freshness.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 130 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 130kcal | 7% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 13g | 20% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 2mg | 1% |
| Sodium | 261mg | 11% |
| Potassium | 51mg | 1% |
| Vitamin A | 465IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 1.7mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 70mg | 7% |
| Iron | 0.5mg | 3% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
3.9
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