Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful sauce that elevates any dish from pasta to sandwiches? Look no further! This basil walnut pesto recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic homemade alternative to store-bought versions, bursting with fresh basil, earthy walnuts, and a touch of zing. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated appetizer, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Get ready to experience the best pesto you've ever tasted!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- ½ cup walnuts, toasted
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)
- 2 cloves garlic
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
Instructions:
- Toast the Walnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let them cool slightly. This step enhances the nutty flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the basil leaves, toasted walnuts, Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), and garlic cloves to a food processor. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
- Blend: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and lemon juice. Process until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Season: Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Add red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier pesto.
- Serve & Store: Your delicious basil walnut pesto is ready! Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips for the Best Pesto:
- Fresh Basil is Key: Using fresh basil is crucial for achieving the best flavor. Avoid using dried basil as it won't provide the same vibrant taste and texture.
- Don't Over-Process: Pulse the ingredients until smooth but avoid over-processing, which can make the pesto bitter.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, lemon juice, or olive oil to your preference.
- Storage: To prevent discoloration, add a thin layer of olive oil to the surface of the pesto before storing it in the refrigerator.
Variations:
- Sun-dried Tomato Pesto: Add ½ cup of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for a sun-kissed twist.
- Pine Nut Pesto: Substitute pine nuts for walnuts for a classic pesto flavor.
- Spinach Walnut Pesto: Combine basil with spinach for a more verdant and nutritious pesto.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 18-20g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This basil walnut pesto recipe offers a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a homemade sauce. It’s perfect for quick dinner ideas, healthy meals, and impressing guests with your homemade cooking skills. Try it on pasta, pizza, sandwiches, or even as a dip for vegetables—the possibilities are endless! Enjoy this delicious and easy recipe.