A simple, classic, versatile sauce that can be used with anything your heart desires!
Ok guys, I have a quick, super easy, and super versatile recipe for you guys! I know pesto is super basic, but trust me, a good pesto can elevate any dish! This homemade version uses only a few ingredients and tastes way better than the store bough stuff! It’s super delicious and creamy without the cream and will keep you wanting more! This recipe can be doubled or tripled to make the desired quantity and can be refrigerated for up to 4-5 days or stored in the freezer until ready to use; simply defrost, add a bit of olive oil, and it is ready to go! This pesto works great tossed with your favorite pasta, slathered on your choice of protein, or mixed with roasted potatoes and veggies! You can get very creative with this recipe and use it on pretty much anything at all! Once the pesto is made, you don’t need to cook it, so if using with pasta, just boil your pasta, reserve a little pasta water and toss in separate bowl with the pesto! Also, if you have the time and patience, you can make fresh pesto in a pestle and mortar. More of the flavors will shine through, but it does take a bit longer than just blending it up in a food processor; either way tastes equally delicious to be honest!
Here’s a few tips to achieve the best pesto:
- Use fresh organic basil, depending on the type, your color may vary
- Make sure to use a good quality olive oil because it makes up most of the sauce
- Use fresh grated parmesan cheese or pecorino romano. I used Belgioioso Parmesan Cheese in this. Do not use the pre shredded cheese because it won’t blend properly into the sauce
- You can make this ahead of time and store it for later use
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to take a photo and tag me if you make this recipe! It’s super quick and easy and works in almost any dish! I love seeing all of your creations and versions of these recipes! I hope you guys enjoy this recipe as much as I do! I’ve been making this for years and it’s always a family favorite! As always, Happy eating, friends!
Homemade Pesto
Ingredients
- 2 cups basil packed
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup parmesan or pecorino romano grated
- 1/8 cup pine nuts toasted
- 4 cloves garlic
Instructions
- Dry roast the pine nuts on low heat until lightly toasted for about a minute or two
- In a food processor, add the basil, garlic, pine nuts, cheese, and half of the oil and grind for about 30 seconds
- Add in remainder oil and continue to pulse until it reaches a paste like consistency
- Use on your favorite dish and enjoy!
Notes
- Use a good quality olive oil since you will actually be tasting it in this recipe
- Use fresh grated cheese, it tastes better and will melt better in the pesto
