Tired of complicated recipes and fancy equipment? Craving a vibrant, flavorful pesto but don't own a food processor? Then this recipe is for you! We're making delicious, homemade pesto the easy way – completely food processor-free. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it an ideal addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Get ready to elevate your pasta nights, sandwiches, or even your eggs with this simple and surprisingly effective method.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts, for a budget-friendly alternative)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra zing!)
Instructions:
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Toast the nuts: Start by toasting your pine nuts (or walnuts) in a small dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. This step enhances their flavor significantly! Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
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Roughly chop the basil: Wash and thoroughly dry your basil leaves. Then, roughly chop them. Don't worry about making them perfectly uniform; a little rustic charm is perfectly fine, and it will save you time.
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Combine ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped basil, toasted nuts, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), and salt.
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Make the pesto: Gradually add the olive oil, stirring continuously with a fork or spoon, until everything is well combined and you reach your desired consistency. You can also add the lemon juice at this stage for extra brightness.
Tips for the Best Pesto:
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Fresh is best: Using fresh basil is key for the best flavor. If you can't find fresh basil, you can use frozen, but allow it to thaw completely and pat it dry before using.
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Adjust to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, salt, or olive oil to suit your preferences. Some like their pesto a little more garlicky, others prefer a milder flavor.
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Storage: Store your homemade pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. A thin layer of olive oil on the surface will help prevent it from browning.
Delicious Variations:
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Sun-dried tomato pesto: Add 1/4 cup of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (drained) for a deeper, richer flavor.
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Spicy pesto: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
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Avocado pesto: For a creamier, richer pesto, add 1/4 of a ripe avocado.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on variations)
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This easy pesto recipe delivers big on flavor without the fuss. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes achievable with simple homemade cooking techniques. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this food recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen! Enjoy!