| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 329 | 34g | 6g | 3g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 1g | 7g | 0.25g |
Within the vibrant world of culinary creation, there’s a certain, one-of-a-kind recipe that to me, stands as a timeless classic: The Classic Basil Pesto. There’s just something about the intersection of fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and the earthy crunch of pine nuts that brings the senses to life. A blend of simple ingredients, all mixed harmoniously into a truly flavorful masterpiece. Its versatility lends itself to so many dishes, making it a must-have in any gourmet’s kitchen repertoire.
My Dual Heritage, Reflected in a Jar of Pesto
While I’m best known for my sushi rolls and seafood dishes influenced by my Japanese heritage and Pacific Northwest upbringing, the crafting of this recipe stems from my love for international cuisine. The Classic Basil Pesto embodies the robust, earthy flavors of Italy, transcending to an almost universal status in the global culinary scene. Much like how I blend Japanese and American flavors, the basil pesto also serves as a delightful confluence of diverse flavors. It’s an undeniable nod to my constant exploration of the culinary world’s rich and flavorful diversity, adding a Mediterranean touch to my collection.
A Wave of Nutritional Goodness
Beyond its bold flavors and versatility, the Classic Basil Pesto also brims with nutritional benefits. Basil, one of the recipe’s key ingredients, is noted for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic and pine nuts come packed with essential minerals and vitamins. The extra virgin olive oil shines not only for its distinctive flavor but also for its high content of heart-healthy fats. Lastly, the Parmesan cheese, a staple in Italian cuisine, provides a hearty dose of calcium and protein. It captures the essence of healthy gastronomy, proving that good food is not just flavorful, but also wholly nourishing.
I often find the Classic Basil Pesto as a topping on pasta dishes, enhancing the tang of fresh tomatoes in a caprese salad or even on a simple, toasted bread. As a cook, what more could you ask for in a recipe? The Classic Basil Pesto embodies versatility in both flavors and culinary uses, a staple that inspires me, ties me to my diverse culinary background, and complements the health-conscious ethos of gourmet cooking.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups Fresh Basil Leaves
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/3 cup Pine Nuts
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients. They include your 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 1/3 cup of pine nuts, 3 minced garlic cloves, and salt and pepper to taste.
Step Two
Place the fresh basil leaves and pine nuts in a food processor or blender. Pulse several times to roughly chop. Feel free to pulse more if you desire a smoother consistency at the end.
Step Three
Add in the minced garlic to the fam and pulse again. Doing this ensures the garlic integrates perfectly with the mix.
Step Four
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil as the food processor or blender is running. This will help combine the oil into the mixture for a silky, emulsified texture.
Step Five
Once the oil is fully incorporated, add the grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse until the cheese is mixed in. Be careful not to over-blend, as it can affect the final consistency.
Step Six
Finally, season your pesto with salt and pepper according to your preference. You can add more basil leaves, garlic or olive oil if you think it is necessary. Do a final pulse to incorporate the seasonings into the pesto.
Step Seven
Your Classic Basil Pesto is now ready. You can enjoy it immediately or store it in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Remember to give it a quick stir before serving to reincorporate any oil that may have separated.
