Classic Basil Parmesan Pesto
This vibrant Classic Basil Parmesan Pesto is a delightful blend of fresh basil, rich pine nuts, and savory garlic, perfect for spreading on crackers, slathering on warm baguettes, or tossing with pasta and fresh tomatoes for a burst of flavor. Its versatility allows it to enhance a variety of dishes, while the simplicity of its preparation makes it a staple in any kitchen. Save your leftovers by freezing in an ice cube tray, ensuring you have this flavorful condiment ready to elevate your meals anytime!
8
Servings
50
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Basil leaves
2 cups (fresh, washed and dried)
Pine nuts
1/3 cup (raw or toasted)
Garlic cloves
3 (peeled)
Olive oil
1/3 cup (extra virgin, may adjust to preference)
Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
Instructions
1
Wash and thoroughly dry the basil leaves to remove any excess moisture.
2
In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped.
3
With the processor running, gradually add the olive oil in a steady stream to emulsify the ingredients until the mixture is smooth. You can add a little extra olive oil if a thinner consistency is desired.
4
Stop the processor and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5
Pulse again until everything is well combined and you reach your preferred texture, either smooth or with a bit of chunkiness.
Nutrition Information
4.5g
Fat
1.5g
Carbs
1.75g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Basil Parmesan Pesto?
It is a vibrant blend of fresh basil, rich pine nuts, and savory garlic, perfect as a spread or sauce.
What are the main ingredients?
The main ingredients are basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic cloves, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 8 servings.
Can I freeze the leftover pesto?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an ice cube tray for easy use later.
How much basil is needed?
The recipe requires 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, washed and dried.
What type of oil should be used?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for this recipe.
How many garlic cloves are in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 peeled garlic cloves.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 50 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 4.5g of fat.
How much protein is in the pesto?
Each serving contains 1.75g of protein.
Are the pine nuts toasted?
You can use either raw or toasted pine nuts.
How do I prepare the basil leaves?
Wash and thoroughly dry the basil leaves to remove any excess moisture before starting.
What equipment is needed?
A food processor is needed to chop and emulsify the ingredients.
How is the olive oil added?
Gradually add the olive oil in a steady stream while the processor is running to emulsify the mixture.
Can I adjust the consistency?
Yes, you can add extra olive oil if a thinner consistency is desired.
When do I add the Parmesan cheese?
Add the grated Parmesan cheese after the oil has been emulsified into the basil mixture.
Is the pesto smooth or chunky?
You can pulse the processor until you reach your preferred texture, whether smooth or chunky.
What can I serve with this pesto?
It is great on crackers, warm baguettes, or tossed with pasta and fresh tomatoes.
How much Parmesan cheese is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
What are the carbohydrates per serving?
There are 1.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this recipe easy to prepare?
Yes, it is described as a simple preparation that makes it a staple in any kitchen.
How much pine nuts are required?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of pine nuts.
Is this recipe considered Italian cuisine?
Yes, it is tagged as Italian cuisine.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The data indicates there is no sugar in this recipe.
Is this recipe vegan?
The recipe is tagged as vegan-friendly, though traditional Parmesan is not vegan; a vegan substitute may be intended.
Can I use this as an appetizer?
Yes, it is tagged as an appetizer and spread.
Do I need to peel the garlic?
Yes, the garlic cloves should be peeled before being added to the processor.
What are the tags for this recipe?
Tags include pesto, basil, spread, appetizer, sauce, vegan-friendly, and Italian cuisine.
How do I season the pesto?
Season with salt and pepper to taste during the final mixing steps.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
The nutrition data for fiber is listed as null.