Fresh Basil and Pine Nuts Pesto it’s a classic and this is an easy homemade recipe! However, pesto can be found in various combinations of fresh herbs, nuts, parmesan, a hint of garlic and of course, extra-virgin olive oil! Known by many, but the store-bought pesto can’t compete with the homemade version. In under 10 minutes, you will have your own pesto that will elevate your pasta, salads and sandwiches.
If you haven’t tried a homemade pesto before, well, you’re missing out! Razvan (my husband), for example, was never a big fan of pesto. That is because he was comparing it to the store-bought version. One day, I made a batch of this easy homemade basil pesto and made just one portion of spaghetti with pesto as Razvan was not digging it at all. That’s until he tasted it. After that, I had no other choice than to make another portion of spaghetti (a bigger one). Now he’s the one asking: “when are you making that spaghetti with pesto again?” or making comments to our friends: “if you haven’t tried pasta with homemade pesto you are missing out!”. Hilarious!
What is Pesto made of you might ask
Pesto is traditionally made with extra-virgin olive oil, nuts, parmesan cheese, and a lot of basil. It has its origin in Liguria, a region of Italy. The classic method of making pesto involves a pestle and a mortar used to pound all the ingredients.
How to Make Pesto
The classic method of making pesto involves a pestle and a mortar used to pound all the ingredients. If you don’t have one on hand, don’t worry. You can use a food processor instead. Place all the ingredients in the food processor and pulse until you obtain the consistency you’re after. Using a low speed is important otherwise the basil will oxidise.
How to store it
You can place it in a jar or airtight container adding a little bit of extra-virgin olive oil just to cover the top. This will keep it fresh for longer. Store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Other ways of using Pesto
Make a fresh sandwich with pesto and mozzarella, take a Caprese or burrata salad to the next level by adding a spoonful of pesto or even mix with oven-roasted potatoes.
Easy Homemade Basil and Pine Nuts pesto
This Fresh Basil and Pine Nuts Pesto it’s a classic. Known by many, but the store-bought pesto can’t compete with the homemade version. In under 10 minutes you will have your own pesto that will elevate your pastas, salads and sandwiches.
Ingredients
- 35 g fresh basil leaves (approx. a bunch)
- 1 garlic clove
- 6 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 100 g pine nuts
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 25 g parmesan cheese (finely grated)
- 25 g pecorino cheese (finely grated)
- pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Use a pestle and mortar and add the basil leaves with a pinch of salt. Pound until you obtain a paste.
2. Add the garlic clove and smash it until it’s smooth and combined with the basil.
3. Add in the pine nuts and continue bashing and pounding until you obtain a smooth texture.
4. Add in the extra-virgin olive oil and the lemon juice and mix well.
5. Finally, add the parmesan and pecorino, mix until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper if needed
Notes
You could use a blender or a food processor if you don’t have a pestle and a mortar on hand. it's also quicker and easier! Just remember to pulse at a low speed until you obtain the desired consistency.
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