Classic Homemade Basil Pesto Sauce

Name: Classic Homemade Basil Pesto Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 50 g pine nuts or cashews; 1 bunch large bunch of basil leaves picked; 50 g parmesan or vegetarian alternative; 1 clove garlic, chopped; 100 ml olive oil

Unlock the vibrant flavors of fresh basil with this classic homemade pesto. Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or drizzling over roasted vegetables, this versatile sauce is ready in minutes.

Servings8 Portions

Prep Time15 Mins

Cook Time5 Mins

Difficulty

Easy

Ingredients

pine nuts or cashews
50 g
large bunch of basil leaves picked
1 bunch
parmesan or vegetarian alternative
50 g
garlic, chopped
1 clove
olive oil
100 ml

Step-by-Step Instructions

Place the pine nuts or cashews in a dry frying pan over low heat. Toast until golden and fragrant, shaking the pan occasionally to prevent burning.

Transfer the toasted nuts into a food processor or mini chopper along with the picked basil leaves, parmesan cheese, and chopped garlic.

Pulse the mixture until roughly chopped, then slowly pour in the olive oil while blitzing until you reach your desired consistency, whether slightly chunky or smooth.

Alternatively, for a more traditional texture, use a large pestle and mortar to pound the ingredients into a rustic paste.

Chef's Tips

To keep the pesto vibrant green, blanch the basil leaves in boiling water for 5 seconds then shock in ice water before blending. Store in an airtight container in the fridge with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation; it will keep for up to three days.