Pesto Recipe: Your Go-To Basil Pesto for Any Occasion!

Hello, foodies! 🍝 Today, let’s dive into one of the most versatile and flavour-packed creations ever—pesto! Whether you’re slathering it on a crusty baguette, tossing it with al dente pasta, or drizzling it over your morning eggs, basil pesto adds a burst of freshness to any dish. Trust me, this recipe will soon become your go-to kitchen companion! 🌿✨

Pesto served

Why This Basil Pesto Is a Game-Changer 🍋

The secret to the best pesto lies in the quality of your ingredients. With such simple components, every one of them counts! Here are some tips to elevate your game:

  1. Use Fresh Basil Only: Make sure those basil leaves are vibrant and green, without any wilting. If they’ve been sitting in the fridge too long, it could turn bitter. 🌿
  2. Toast the Pine Nuts Lightly: Pine nuts are delicate, so toast them on low heat until they just start to brown. This adds a warm nuttiness that raw nuts can’t match! 🥜
  3. Top-Quality Parmesan Cheese: For the best flavour, grab a block of authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano and grate it yourself. Pre-grated cheese won’t melt into the sauce as nicely. 🧀
  4. Squeeze in Some Lemon Juice: Not everyone does this, but a hint of lemon really brightens it up, giving it a little zing that’s hard to resist. 🍋
  5. Don’t Skimp on the Olive Oil: Use extra-virgin olive oil for its fruity, aromatic qualities. 🫒

How to Enjoy Your Pesto (Hint: It’s Not Just for Pasta!) 🍝

Once you’ve got your bowl of freshly made pesto, the culinary world is your oyster! Try out these ideas:

      • Toss with Pasta: Use spaghetti, penne, or linguine and reserve some of the starchy pasta water to stir through for that silky finish.
      • Spread on a Sandwich: Replace mayonnaise with pesto for a gourmet sandwich experience. 🥪
      • Add to Soups: A spoonful in a bowl of minestrone or pumpkin soup adds an herby kick. 🥣
      • Top Your Pizza: Swap tomato sauce for pesto and top it with mozzarella and fresh tomatoes. 🍕
      • Drizzle over Grilled Veggies: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus taste amazing with a drizzle. 🥗

How to Store Your Pesto Like a Pro

If you’ve made a big batch of pesto and want to save some for later, here’s what you can do:

    • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to a week. To prevent browning, pour a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing.
    • Freezer: Freeze in small portions (ice cube trays work great!). Once frozen, transfer to a zip-lock bag and store for up to 3 months. Just thaw and use as needed!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings 🥂

For an elevated meal, serve your pesto sauces with grilled chicken or sautéed prawns for added protein. A side of garlic bread and a simple rocket salad will complete the dish perfectly.

If you’re enjoying this at lunch, pair it with a crisp white wine—like a Sauvignon Blanc—to complement the freshness of the basil and lemon. 🍷 And for a family-friendly dinner, serve alongside some homemade lemonade for a bright, zesty combo. 🍋

Take a Pic and Share Your Creation! 📸

I’d love to see how you use your basil pesto! Whether it’s mixed into your pasta, spread on toast, or used in a creative way, snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @steph_cooks_stuff. I can’t wait to see what you come up with!

There you have it—a simple, quick, and flavour-packed basil pesto that’s guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. With this recipe in your back pocket, you’ll always have a way to elevate your meals. Happy cooking and bon appétit! 😋

Pesto cooked with ingredients on table
Steph de Sousa

Pesto

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I whipped up this irresistibly fresh and aromatic Basil Pesto. It's so easy and perfect for a quick pasta night or as a delightful spread. Here’s how you can recreate it:
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Recipes
Cuisine: Australian
Calories: 146

Ingredients
  

  • 🌿 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
  • 🧀 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 🫒 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 🥜 1/2 cup pine nuts
  • 🧄 1 garlic clove
  • 🧂 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 🍋 A squeeze of lemon juice

Method
 

  1. In a dry pan over low heat, toast those pine nuts until they’re a lovely golden colour.
  2. Grab your hand blender and toss in the basil, nuts, cheese, garlic, and oil. Give it a whirl!
  3. Blend until you achieve that chunky pesto perfection.
  4. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper and that zesty lemon squeeze to elevate the flavours.
  5. Finally, stir it into your favourite hot pasta, remembering to add in that 1/2 cup of pasta water for silkiness.
  6. Bon Appétit! 😋🍴

Nutrition

Calories: 146kcalCarbohydrates: 0.4gProtein: 2gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 4mgSodium: 101mgPotassium: 17mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 0.1gVitamin A: 207IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 0.2mg

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