When it comes to delicious sauces, there are few better than homemade basil pesto. It’s so simple and easy to make, and is the perfect addition to so many different dishes. With this simple recipe, you will never rely on store bought again!
Jump to RecipeThe Ingredients
Just like with all simple recipes, the ingredients become the easiest way to elevate the result. With basil pesto, the most essential ingredients are the basil and the extra virgin olive oil. Fresh basil, and a lot of it, is absolutely essential for this recipe.
But for truly the best taste, I highly recommend using a delicious, quality olive oil. My favorites are Graza and Brightland. These quality olive oils will truly elevate your finished pesto.
When it comes to the parmesan, it’s best to freshly grate some to add. But as always, if you have pre-grated you need to use, it’ll still be yummy! One of the other essential ingredients is the nuts. While traditional pesto uses pine nuts, I prefer to use walnuts. While pine nuts are delicious, they are also usually a lot more expensive. And in my experience, walnuts work just as well for a much lower price!
putting it all together
There are several ways to make your homemade basil pesto. The most traditional way is with a mortar and pestle like this one. With the mortar and pestle you are able to grind up each ingredient and meld all the flavors together. But obviously with this method you definitely have to use a bit more elbow grease to make it come together.
If you’re looking for something quicker and easier, a food processor is a perfect option. This way, you can quickly grind all the ingredients together and stream in the oil to make a perfect pesto!
Basil Pesto
Equipment
- mortar and pestle optional
- food processor optional
Ingredients
- 1 1/2-2 cups basil leaves
- 1-2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup parmesan grated
- 1 cup olive oil extra virgin
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
Instructions
- If using a mortar and pestle, add in the garlic and grind to a paste. Then add in the walnuts and crush into a paste as well. Then add in the basil mix to combine. Add in the oil, parmesan and salt and pepper to taste and mix vigorously.
- If using a food processor, add in the garlic and basil leaves and process. Then add in the walnuts, parmesan and olive oil and blend again. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and enjoy!
Enjoy!
If you’re looking for more recipes, check out the Food portion of the blog. And for the perfect use for this basil pesto, check out the Pesto Caprese Chicken recipe.
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[…] component you can keep it easy and buy some store bought, or you can make some homemade pesto. My basil pesto recipe is simply delicious and can be made in just […]