Imagine transforming simple ingredients into a mouthwatering sauce that'll make your taste buds dance with joy! This quick and easy nut-free pesto is about to become your new kitchen superhero - no complicated techniques, no expensive ingredients, just pure, vibrant flavor that will elevate everything from pasta to sandwiches. Whether you're a busy home cook or a culinary novice, this recipe promises restaurant-worthy results with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the fresh basil leaves under cool running water and pat them completely dry using clean paper towels or a kitchen towel.
- Peel the garlic cloves and remove any outer papery skin, then roughly chop them into smaller pieces to help with blending.
- Add the fresh basil leaves, chopped garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and black pepper to a food processor or high-powered blender.
- Begin slowly drizzling the olive oil into the food processor while pulsing the ingredients, ensuring a smooth and consistent texture.
- Continue blending until the mixture becomes a smooth, vibrant green sauce with no large chunks of basil or garlic remaining.
- Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning by adding more salt or black pepper as needed to enhance the flavor profile.
- Transfer the freshly made pesto sauce to a clean glass jar or airtight container for storage.
- Serve immediately with pasta, spread on sandwiches, or use as a delicious sauce for various dishes. The pesto can be refrigerated for up to 5-7 days.
Tips
- Use the freshest basil possible - look for bright green leaves without any wilting or brown spots
- Pat your basil leaves completely dry to prevent a watery sauce
- Use a high-powered blender or food processor for the smoothest texture
- Drizzle olive oil slowly while blending to help emulsify the sauce
- Taste and adjust seasonings gradually - you can always add more salt or pepper
- For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged
- If not serving immediately, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pesto to prevent oxidation and maintain its vibrant green color
- Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness and to help preserve the color
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 299kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
