pesto sauce recipe

Pesto sauce is a traditional Italian sauce that is made with fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. The ingredients are typically blended together in a food processor or blender to create a smooth and creamy sauce.

This sauce has a bright green color and a strong, fresh flavor that is ideal for use as a pasta sauce, sandwich spread, or dip for vegetables. Pesto sauce is easy to make at home and can be customized with different herbs and nuts for unique variations. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months.

This simple recipe for basil pesto sauce is made without the addition of parmesan cheese. Not only have I found that omitting parmesan cheese helps preserve the sauce for longer, but is also important as a vegetarian.

Homemade basil pesto is a delicious and adaptable sauce/spread made from a few basic ingredients. It comes together in minutes and tastes far superior to store-bought due to its freshness. (Much like lemon curd, store-bought pesto is nothing like homemade pesto!)

Ingredients for the pesto sauce recipe

  • 3 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 1 ½ cups walnuts
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instruction for the pesto sauce recipe

  1. To begin, toast the almonds in a small frying pan or skillet over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Let the almonds cool on a plate.
  2. In a food processor, food chopper, or grinder jar, combine the almonds. Crush the almonds coarsely.
  3. Then add the basil leaves, garlic, black pepper, and salt.
  4. Smash the basil leaves and blend the mixture while crushing and blending.
  5. Remove and store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • This basil pesto can be stored in a jar or sealable container, then carefully sealed and refrigerated for up to 1 week.
  • If you don’t have fresh garlic cloves, use 3 teaspoons of minced garlic from the jar.
  • Add your preferred herbs, such as cilantro, mint, or parsley. Season with cayenne, ground ginger, paprika, or crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Instead, add a dab of your favorite hot sauce.

FAQ

2 What can I use pesto sauce for?

Pesto sauce can be used in many different ways. It is traditionally used as a pasta sauce, but it can also be used as a spread on sandwiches or toast, as a dip for vegetables, or as a topping for grilled meats.

3 How long does pesto sauce last?

Pesto sauce will typically last in the refrigerator for about 1 week if stored in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

4 Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, you can substitute pine nuts with other types of nuts like walnuts or almonds. Each type of nut will give the pesto a slightly different flavor and texture.

5 Can I make pesto sauce without cheese?

Yes, you can make a vegan version without cheese. You can either omit the cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

6 How do I store pesto sauce?

Pesto sauce should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also store it in the freezer in a freezer-safe container or in ice cube trays for smaller portions.

Nutrition

Calories 168kcal
Fat 17g
Fiber
2g
Iron
0.2mg
Carbohydrates 2.2g
Protein 2g
Vitamin A
17IU
Calcium
10mg

PESTO SAUCE

 

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