Savory Basil & Roasted Garlic Pesto Burst
This Savory Basil & Roasted Garlic Pesto Burst is a delightful twist on traditional pesto, infusing the rich, aromatic flavor of roasted garlic with vibrant fresh basil. Perfect for tossing with pasta, drizzling over grilled vegetables, or spreading on toasted bread, this pesto elevates any dish. With the added nuttiness of pine nuts and a kick from parmesan cheese, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic way to celebrate summer's bounty. Share this versatile sauce with friends and family, and experience the magic of homemade pesto!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
garlic
1 head (top 1/3 cut off, skin peeled away)
olive oil
2 teaspoons (for drizzling on garlic)
fresh basil leaves
4 cups (packed)
extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup
fresh Italian parsley
3-5 sprigs
pine nuts
1/4 cup (lightly toasted for enhanced flavor)
parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (grated)
lemon wedge
1 (for juicing)
salt
to taste
black pepper
to taste
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Basil & Roasted Garlic Pesto Burst?
It is a delightful twist on traditional pesto that combines the aromatic flavor of roasted garlic with vibrant fresh basil, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese.
How do I roast the garlic for this recipe?
Cut off the top 1/3 of a garlic head, peel away the outer skin, drizzle with 2 teaspoons of olive oil, and roast until softened.
Can I use a substitute for pine nuts?
Yes, while pine nuts are traditional, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Is this pesto recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses plant-based herbs, nuts, and parmesan cheese.
How long does this pesto last in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, the pesto will typically stay fresh for 5 to 7 days.
Can I freeze Savory Basil & Roasted Garlic Pesto?
Yes, you can freeze it in airtight containers or ice cube trays for easy portioning for up to 6 months.
What is the best way to serve this pesto?
It is perfect for tossing with pasta, drizzling over grilled vegetables, or spreading on toasted bread.
How much basil do I need for this recipe?
You will need 4 cups of packed fresh basil leaves.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
For the best texture and vibrant flavor, fresh basil is highly recommended over dried herbs.
Why is parsley included in the ingredients?
The fresh Italian parsley adds a layer of brightness and complements the basil and roasted garlic.
How do I toast the pine nuts?
Lightly toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until they are golden and fragrant.
Is this pesto recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this pesto vegan?
Yes, you can make it vegan by substituting the parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
How much olive oil is required?
You will need 2 teaspoons for roasting the garlic and 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil for the pesto sauce.
Should I use a food processor or a blender?
Either a food processor or a blender works well to combine the ingredients into a smooth or slightly chunky sauce.
What does the lemon wedge do for the recipe?
The juice from the lemon wedge provides a necessary acidity that balances the richness of the oil and cheese.
Can I skip roasting the garlic?
While you can use raw garlic, roasting it provides a mellow, sweet flavor that defines this specific 'Burst' recipe.
How do I prevent the pesto from turning brown?
To prevent oxidation, you can pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top of the pesto before sealing the container.
What type of garlic should I use?
A standard head of fresh garlic is best for roasting to achieve the desired aromatic profile.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is classified as an easy recipe that is perfect for celebrating summer's bounty.
What is the calorie count for this pesto?
The specific calorie count is not provided, but pesto is generally calorie-dense due to the olive oil and nuts.
Can I use this pesto as a marinade?
Absolutely! It makes an excellent marinade for chicken, fish, or even tofu.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 main ingredients used in this Savory Basil & Roasted Garlic Pesto.
Is the parmesan cheese grated or shredded?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese for optimal blending.
Does this recipe contain salt?
Yes, salt is added to taste to enhance the other flavors in the sauce.
What kind of olive oil should I use for the sauce?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor and quality in cold sauces like pesto.
How many sprigs of parsley are needed?
You should use 3 to 5 sprigs of fresh Italian parsley.
Can I use Pecorino instead of Parmesan?
Yes, Pecorino Romano can be used, though it will result in a saltier and tangier flavor.
Is this pesto spicy?
No, it is a savory and aromatic sauce, though you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer a kick.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized as a sauce or condiment within Italian cuisine.