basic pesto
I love pesto! This is quick and easy... and really good!
Blue Ribbon Recipe
What to do with an abundance of fresh basil? Turn it into pesto! This recipe is a basic version and it's delicious. Pesto is a versatile sauce. Spread it onto toasted bread slices. Toss it with pasta for an easy summertime dinner. Or, drizzle it over grilled chicken. This flavorful sauce can be whipped up in no time. If you don't use all the sauce, freeze the extra.
prep time
cook time
method
No-Cook or Other
yield
Makes 1 cup
Ingredients
- 2 cups basil leaves, fresh and packed
- 1/2 cup Parmesan-Reggiano or Romano cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (medium-sized)
- - salt
- - pepper
How To Make basic pesto
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Step 1Combine the basil with the pine nuts. Pulse a few times in a food processor. (If you are using walnuts instead of pine nuts and they are not already chopped, pulse them a few times first, before adding the basil.) -
Step 2Add the garlic. Pulse a few times more. (You can use a mortar and pestle instead if you'd like.)
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Step 3Slowly add the olive oil in a constant stream while the food processor is on.
-
Step 4Stop to scrape down the sides of the food processor with a rubber spatula. Add the grated cheese.
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Step 5Pulse again until blended.
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Step 6Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Last Step: Don't forget to share! Post a picture of your finished recipe here and on your favorite social network. Don't forget to tag Just A Pinch and include #justapinchrecipes!
Discover More
Culture:
Italian
Tag:
#Quick & Easy
Diet:
Vegetarian
Category:
Spreads
Keyword:
#Basil
Keyword:
#pesto
Method:
No-Cook or Other
Ingredient:
Nuts
Collection:
Summer Recipes
Collection:
Fresh Finds
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