About Pesto
Pesto is a traditional Italian sauce that originated in the region of Liguria, located in the northwest of Italy. The name pesto comes from the Italian word pestare, meaning to pound or to crush, which refers to the traditional method of preparing this sauce. Pesto is known for its vibrant green color and its rich, fresh flavors.The main ingredient in pesto is fresh basil leaves, which are crushed together with pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and extra-virgin olive oil using a mortar and pestle. This combination creates a fragrant and luscious sauce that is often served with pasta. Pesto can be enjoyed hot or cold and is also used as a condiment or spread for sandwiches and bruschetta. It is a versatile sauce that can be adapted to personal preferences by adjusting the quantities of ingredients or adding variations like sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Gather 2 cups of fresh basil leaves
- Peel and chop 3 garlic cloves
- Measure 1/2 cup of pine nuts
- Grate 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese
- Get 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- Collect a pinch of salt and black pepper
Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts
- Heat a skillet over medium heat
- Add the pine nuts and toast them for a few minutes until lightly browned
- Make sure to stir frequently to avoid burning
- Once done, remove from heat and let them cool
Step 3: Blend the Ingredients
- In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, chopped garlic, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper
- Pulse the mixture a few times to chop the ingredients
- While the processor is running, slowly pour in the olive oil until a smooth paste-like consistency is achieved
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning
- Taste the pesto and add more salt or pepper if desired
- Blend again to incorporate any additional seasoning
Step 5: Serve or Store
- Transfer the pesto to a clean jar or container
- Use immediately as a sauce for pasta, spread on bread, or store in the refrigerator
- If storing, cover the pesto with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation
- Enjoy your homemade pesto!
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Per 100g | Per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 303 | 45 |
| Total Fat | 30g | 4.5g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.8g | 0.7g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 0mg |
| Sodium | 584mg | 87.6mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 3.8g | 0.6g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g | 0.3g |
| Total Sugars | 0.9g | 0.1g |
| Protein | 3.7g | 0.6g |
Ingredients
| 2 cups | fresh basil leaves |
| 1/2 cup | extra virgin olive oil |
| 1/3 cup | pine nuts |
| 3 cloves | garlic |
| 1/2 cup | Parmesan cheese |
| 1/2 teaspoon | salt |
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