Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/6 checked
8
servings
2 unit

garlic cloves

peeled

0.5 tsp

salt

3 tbsp

pine nuts

toasted (optional)

3 cup

fresh basil leaves

loosely packed

0.5 cup

olive oil

extra virgin

0.5 cup

grated Parmesan cheese

freshly grated

Step 1
~2 min

Combine garlic, salt, and pine nuts in a blender or food processor.

Step 2
~2 min

Process until finely chopped.

Step 3
~2 min

Add fresh basil leaves and olive oil.

Step 4
~2 min

Puree until smooth.

Step 5
~2 min

Add grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 6
~2 min

Process briefly, just until combined.

Step 7
~2 min

Serve immediately with pasta, grilled meats, or vegetables, or store in refrigerator.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

For a brighter green color, blanch the basil leaves briefly before blending.

Store pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavor.

For richer flavour, use a high quality olive oil

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

5 mins

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Low
Smell Intensity
High
Noise Level
Medium
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Toss with pasta, spread on sandwiches, or use as a marinade.

Serve over bruschetta, grilled vegetables, pizza, or sandwiches

Use as a pizza base instead of tomato sauce

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Grilled chicken
Pasta
Tomatoes
Mozzarella

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Genoa, Italy

Cultural Significance

A staple of Ligurian cuisine.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Summer gatherings
Pasta dishes

Occasion Tags

Summer
Dinner
Party

Popularity Score

70/100

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