Description
Elevate your dishes with this Garlic Basil Pesto Recipe! Fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan blend into a rich, flavorful sauce perfect for pasta or spreads.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Crush Garlic: Place the garlic and a pinch of salt into a mortar. Use the pestle to crush the garlic into a smooth paste.
- Add Basil: Gradually add the basil leaves, crushing them in circular motions with the pestle until they form a coarse, fragrant paste.
- Incorporate Pine Nuts: Add the pine nuts and grind them into the basil mixture until fully combined.
- Mix Parmesan: Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, blending it into the paste with the pestle.
- Add Olive Oil: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while stirring with the pestle, ensuring the pesto reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately over pasta, spread on bread, or as a dip.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian