Homemade Pesto Sauce
Homemade Basil Pesto is a delicious sauce, spread, or condiment made from a few simple, fresh, and flavorful ingredients. This simple homemade pesto sauce comes together in minutes and tastes so much better than store-bought!
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- ½ cup walnuts or pine nuts toasted (optional)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (2.25 ounces)
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- ¾ cups grated parmesan cheese
- 5 cloves garlic
- ¾ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¾ cup olive oil or avocado oil
Instructions
- In a skillet, toast the nuts on very low heat for 3-5 minutes or until slightly golden. Transfer the nuts to the food processor. (This can also be done in a blender)
- Add the basil, spinach, parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, salt, and pepper to the food processor. Pulse for 10-15 seconds until thoroughly combined. Scrape down the sides and pulse until all the ingredients have been combined.
- While the food processor is running add the olive oil. Stop and scrape down the sides when needed.
- Taste and adjust; add more salt, pepper, or olive oil as desired.
Notes
Makes 1 ¼ cups of Pesto
Refrigerator Storage: Transfer the freshly made pesto into an airtight container. To minimize air contact, press plastic wrap directly onto the pesto's surface before sealing the container with a lid. Homemade pesto can be refrigerated this way for up to a week.
Freezer Storage: Divide the pesto into ice cube trays or small containers. If you choose ice cube trays, freeze until solid and then transfer the frozen pesto cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. Alternatively, freeze larger portions in airtight containers, remembering to label and date them. Frozen pesto can be stored for up to 6 months.
Oil Layer: Consider adding a thin layer of olive oil on top of the pesto before sealing the container. This olive oil layer acts as a protective barrier, preventing air from reaching the pesto and reducing oxidation.
Thawing Frozen Pesto: When you want to use frozen pesto, remove the desired amount from the freezer. You can thaw it in the refrigerator or in the microwave on the defrost setting. You can also use it directly from the freezer while cooking; it will thaw quickly when heated.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 547kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 56g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 13g | Monounsaturated Fat: 31g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 772mg | Potassium: 195mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1503IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 217mg | Iron: 1mg
Find it online:
www.soulfullymade.com/homemade-pesto-recipe/