Homemade Basil Pesto Sauce
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Total Time
5 mins
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Servings
2 cups
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Calories
652 kcal
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Course
Condiments
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Cuisine
Italian
Homemade Basil Pesto Sauce
Description
Homemade Basil Pesto Sauce combines fresh basil leaves with toasted pine nuts and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a traditional flavor base. Garlic and lemon juice add pungency and brightness, while extra virgin olive oil brings richness and emulsifies the sauce into a smooth texture. Processing these ingredients in a food processor creates a well-incorporated, vibrant green sauce.
The aromatic basil dominates the flavor profile, complemented by nutty pine nuts and salty Parmesan. The garlic lends sharpness, and lemon juice balances with acidity, creating a complex yet bright taste. The oil ensures a smooth, spreadable consistency suitable for various uses.
This versatile pesto is ideal tossed with pasta, spread on bread, drizzled over grilled vegetables, or mixed into sauces and dressings. It can also serve as a topping for meat or seafood.
Store pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days to maintain its freshness and vibrant color.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups basil packed, fresh leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts toasted
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon garlic chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil good quality
Instructions
- Add the basil, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, garlic, and lemon juice to the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until the basil is finely chopped
- With the food processor on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Once all of the oil has been added, allow the food processor to run for an additional 10 to 15 seconds to fully incorporate the oil. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- This recipe yields about 2 cups of pesto; a serving size is approximately 1/4 cup.
- Store pesto in an airtight container refrigerated for up to four days to preserve flavor and color.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 2cups
Amount Per Serving
Calories 652 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 652kcal | 33% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Protein | 8g | 16% |
| Fat | 69g | 106% |
| Saturated Fat | 10g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 9mg | 3% |
| Sodium | 203mg | 8% |
| Potassium | 190mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 1053IU | 21% |
| Vitamin C | 8mg | 9% |
| Calcium | 191mg | 19% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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