Best Basil Pesto Recipe

Best Basil Pesto Recipe is simple yet delicious, adding a burst of fresh, herby flavor to pasta, sandwiches, salads and so much more. Made with fresh basil, garlic, parmesan cheese, pine nuts and olive oil, this Italian classic is so easy to make at home!

Basil Pesto Sauce is a vibrant and aromatic Italian condiment traditionally made by blending fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese and olive oil into a smooth and flavorful paste. Originating from Genoa, a region in Italy, this classic sauce boasts a bright green color and a rich herbaceous taste. It is most commonly tossed with pasta but also serves as the most delicious spread for a sandwich, added to a salad or a dip for bread. Basil pesto is loved for its freshness and versatility, making it a staple in many kitchens around the world.

We love using fresh Basil Pesto with our very loved Basil Pesto Pasta or as a drizzle on the most delicious appetizer, Melon Prosciutto Burrata Salad.

Ingredient Notes

Fresh Basil- The star of the show. Use fresh, vibrant basil leaves for the best flavor. Avoid wilted or bruised leaves.

Garlic- A little goes a long way. Use fresh garlic cloves for a strong and aromatic kick.

Pine Nuts- These small nuts add a richness and buttery texture. Lightly toasting them enhances the flavor, but raw pines nuts work well too. You can substitute pine nuts for walnuts, almonds or cashews as well.

Parmesan Cheese- Aged Parmesan cheese gives the pesto a salty and nutty flavor.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil- Make sure to use a good quality olive oil.

Lemon Juice- A small squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavor and keeps the pesto bright green in color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Toast the Pine Nuts-If desired, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly golden and fragrant.
2. Blend the Ingredients- In a food processor, combine the basil, garlic, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, lemon juice, salt and pepper and oliver oil. Pulse until finely pureed and .
3. Store or Serve- Use immediately in a pasta or on a sandwich or store in an airtight container or jar. You can also freeze pesto in ice cubes trays for an easy use later.

Serving Ideas

• Toss the pesto with pasta for a quick and delicious Pesto Pasta weeknight dinner.
• Spread on a sandwich or wrap for extra flavor
• Use as a dip for bread, crackers or veggies
• Drizzle over grilled chicken, roasted veggies or another protein for choice.

Tips for Making the Best Basil Pesto

1. Use a Food Processor or Blender- A food processor makes this recipe so easy and quick. If you don't have a food processor, a blender works great too but you might need more olive oil to get the sauce pureed.
2. Toast the Nuts- Lightly toasting the pine nuts will bring out a deeper, nuttier flavor. Just toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
3. Prevent Oxidation-Basil Pesto can turn brown when exposed to the air. To keep it bright and green color, press plastic wrap directly on the surface and close the lid on the air tight container.

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