Homemade Basil Pesto: Bursting with Fresh Basil Flavor
Homemade Basil Pesto: Bursting with Fresh Basil Flavor
The Ultimate Basil Pesto Recipe Using Fresh Basil and Pine Nuts
Do you love the vibrant, fresh taste of basil? This recipe shows you how to make a generous batch of homemade basil pesto that’s perfect for elevating a variety of dishes, from pasta and salads to sandwiches. By combining fresh basil leaves, nutty pine nuts, flavorful Parmesan cheese, and extra virgin olive oil, you can create a simple yet deeply satisfying condiment. Enjoy the unparalleled freshness of pesto made right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients- 60g fresh basil leaves (washed and thoroughly dried)
- 50g pine nuts, shelled
- 3 cloves garlic
- 40g high-quality Parmesan cheese (grated or finely chopped)
- 100ml extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by preparing the fresh basil. Submerge the basil leaves in a bowl of cool water, gently swishing them to remove any dirt or debris. Afterward, carefully pat the basil leaves completely dry with paper towels or a clean cloth. Ensuring the basil is thoroughly dry is crucial for preserving the pesto’s quality and shelf life.
Step 2
To enhance the nutty aroma of the pine nuts, lightly toast them. Place the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Toast for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until they are lightly golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as this can impart a bitter taste.
Step 3
Immediately after toasting, spread the pine nuts onto a plate or shallow bowl to cool down. This step helps prevent them from becoming soggy and maintains their crispness, contributing to a richer flavor in the pesto.
Step 4
Now, add the prepared fresh basil leaves, 3 cloves of garlic, and 40g of Parmesan cheese to your food processor or blender. You can adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference; too much can make the pesto overpowering.
Step 5
Pour in the 100ml of extra virgin olive oil and add the 1/2 teaspoon of salt. The olive oil not only smooths the texture but also helps to release and meld the flavors of the basil and other ingredients.
Step 6
Add the toasted and cooled pine nuts (50g) to the processor along with the other ingredients.
Step 7
Process all the ingredients until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. You can use an immersion blender or a food processor. Pulse until smooth, or leave slightly chunky for a bit of texture, depending on your preference. Scrape down the sides with a spatula as needed to ensure even blending.
Step 8
Transfer the finished basil pesto into a clean, sterilized glass jar. To help preserve it longer, you can pour a thin layer of olive oil over the surface of the pesto to minimize air exposure. Store in the refrigerator and aim to consume within 1-2 weeks for the best flavor.
Step 9
Your delicious homemade basil pesto, brimming with the fragrance of fresh basil and the richness of pine nuts and cheese, is now ready! Use it to enhance your pasta, bread, salads, and countless other dishes for a burst of vibrant flavor.
