Our Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe
What is Basil Pesto Sauce
Basil pesto is a simple but flavorful sauce. The traditional Italian recipe is made from just basil, garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese. Blue Apron sends a delicious, fresh nut-free recipe. There are hundreds of variations available on the internet, but our favorite recipes stick pretty close to the classic.
How to Make Basil Pesto
The name pesto comes from the Italian word ‘pestare,’ meaning to pound or crush. This name refers to the traditional method of preparing pesto—crushing ingredients by hand with a mortar and pestle. Most modern recipes simplify this process with a food processor or blender. Making your own pesto at home is easy, the goal is just to combine all of the ingredients and form a smooth sauce.
Basil Pesto Ingredients
When you’re only working with 5 ingredients, quality makes a big difference. If you can find good tasting olive oil and flavorful Parmesan, your pesto will be absolutely delicious. Pine nuts can be expensive, but their subtle rich flavors provide a luxurious base for the sauce. If pine nuts aren’t available in your local grocery store, or you have a sensitivity to tree nuts, try the nut-free alternative below.
Homemade Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe
1.5 Cup basil picked
1/4 Cup toasted pine nuts
1/4 Cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 garlic clove, minced or microplaned
1/3 Cup olive oil
In a food processor, mix basil, cheese, garlic, and half the olive oil. Pulse for 20-30 seconds until roughly chopped. Stream in remaining olive oil, and continue to blend into a smooth paste. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Basil Pesto Recipe Without Nuts
1 Cup basil picked
1 Cup parsley leaves picked
1/4 Cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 garlic clove, minced or microplaned
1/3 Cup Olive oil
In a food processor, mix basil, parsley, cheese, garlic, and half the olive oil. Pulse for 20-30 seconds until roughly chopped. Stream in remaining olive oil and blend into a smooth paste. Season with salt and pepper to taste.