Basil Pesto: Easy Recipe (3 steps – 20 min)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan-Reggiano or Romano cheese
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts
• 3 medium sized garlic cloves, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine the basil and pine nuts in a food processor and pulse a few times until chopped.
2. Add the garlic and Parmesan cheese to the food processor and pulse again until well mixed.
3. While the food processor is running, slowly pour the olive oil into the mixture through the feed tube, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the food processor.
4. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. If the mixture seems too thick, add a small amount of water or olive oil to thin it out.

Serving Suggestions:

Basil pesto is a versatile sauce that can be used to add flavor to many different dishes. It can be spread on sandwiches, used as a dip for vegetables or crackers, or added to pasta dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Toss with hot pasta and garnish with pine nuts and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
• Serve as a condiment for grilled chicken or fish.
• Use as a spread on sandwiches or crusty bread.
• Add to scrambled eggs for an extra burst of flavor.
• Drizzle over roasted vegetables or potatoes.

Verdict:

This basil pesto recipe is quick, easy, and delicious. The combination of fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese creates a bright and flavorful sauce that can be used in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking for a sauce to dress up your pasta dishes or a dip to serve with vegetables, this recipe won’t disappoint.