About the Recipe
Indulge in a vibrant bowl of pure summer with this delectable nutty pesto. The star of the show is fresh, fragrant basil, complemented by your preferred nuts—whether you opt for classic toasted pine nuts for a creamy texture or crunchy, rich walnuts for an earthy flavor. Forgo store-bought options; this version is remarkably simple to prepare, allowing you to feel like a culinary virtuoso in your own kitchen.
With a few swift pulses in the food processor, you will transform simple, high-quality ingredients into a bright, herbaceous, and garlicky green masterpiece. The toasted nuts impart a satisfying depth, while a squeeze of lemon ensures that the entire dish remains fresh and zesty.
This is not merely a sauce; it is a celebration in a jar! Toss it with your favorite pasta, spoon it onto grilled chicken, spread it over toasted bread, or drizzle it over fresh tomatoes and mozzarella. Prepare to be the culinary hero of your next meal, with a sauce that is as enjoyable to create as it is to savor.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed (can sub half the basil leaves with baby spinach)
½ cup freshly grated Romano or Parmesan cheese
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
⅓ cup pine nuts (can sub chopped walnuts)
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon salt, or more to taste
⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or more to taste
Preparation
In a blender or food processor, combine the sage, olive oil, basil, pine nuts, parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), garlic, lemon juice or vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
Blend until the mixture is smooth.
Use immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
