Basic Basil Pesto
Equipment
- stick blender
Ingredients
- 50 g fresh basil leaves about 2 tightly packed cups
- 30 g pine nuts about 3 tbsp
- 1-2 garlic cloves optional or to taste
- 50 g Parmesan or Grana Padano, grated
- 100-120 extra virgin olive oil
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Lightly toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over low heat until golden. Cool slightly.
Blend
- In a tall container or jug, combine: basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, pinch of salt
- Pulse with your stick blender while drizzling in the olive oil gradually, until smooth or desired texture.
- Taste and adjust:
- Add more salt, cheese, or oil to taste. If too thick, thin with a splash of oil or a spoon of pasta cooking water before serving.
Store
- Keeps in fridge 3–5 days in a jar with a thin layer of oil on top, or freeze in portions (ice cube tray works well).
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!