Crafting Your Own Pesto Sauce
Pesto Sauce. Bursting with the freshness of basil, the richness of nuts, and the zing of garlic, this sauce is a celebration of flavors that can elevate your pasta, sandwiches, or appetizers. Join us in unlocking the secrets to mastering this classic sauce that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your home.
You can also check out our other Sauce & Dressing Recipes.
Homemade Pesto Sauce
Mediterranean flavors and aromas in your dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves packed
- 1 cup olive oil extra virgin
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese optional, for added depth
- ½ cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 3 pcs garlic cloves peeled
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- lemon juice optional, for brightness
Instructions
- If using pine nuts or walnuts, lightly toast them in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Set aside to cool.
- In a food processor, combine fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, toasted nuts, peeled garlic cloves, salt, and black pepper.
- Pulse the ingredients until coarsely chopped.
- With the food processor running, slowly stream in the olive oil. Continue processing until the mixture reaches a smooth, paste-like consistency.
Notes
- If the pesto is too thick, you can add more olive oil until it reaches your desired consistency.
- For an extra layer of flavor, add grated Pecorino Romano cheese to the mixture and pulse until combined.
- Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning. If you desire a brighter flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Use the pesto immediately as a pasta sauce, sandwich spread, or dip. Alternatively, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for later use.
