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Homemade Basil Pesto Recipe

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Homemade basil pesto is a vibrant, aromatic Italian sauce made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It's quick to prepare and perfect for enhancing a variety of dishes.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh basil leaves, tightly packed

3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/3 cup pine nuts

3 garlic cloves

1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the basil leaves and pat them dry. Peel the garlic cloves.
  2. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
  3. Add the shredded Parmesan cheese and pulse a few times to combine.
  4. While the processor is running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
  5. Add salt and pepper to taste, pulsing briefly to mix.
  6. Transfer the pesto to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.

Notes

  • To prevent browning, top stored pesto with a thin layer of olive oil.
  • Toasting the pine nuts is optional but enhances flavor.
  • Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/homemade-basil-pesto-recipe/