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–+ servings
Basil Pesto for Pasta and Spreads

Basil Pesto for Pasta and Spreads: Fresh Flavor Made Easy

This Basil Pesto for Pasta and Spreads is a vibrant and versatile sauce perfect for elevating your meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Uncategorized
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 80
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto
  • 2 cups Fresh Basil Leaves Clean and dry
  • ¼ cup Pine Nuts Can substitute with walnuts
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Grated, feel free to use Pecorino
  • 2 cloves Garlic Adjust to taste
  • ½ cup Olive Oil Use high-quality extra virgin
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt Adjust as needed
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed

Equipment

  • blender or food processor

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Gather your fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, salt, and lemon juice.
  2. In your blender or food processor, add the fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse for about 15-20 seconds.
  3. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and pulse for another 10-15 seconds.
  4. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending on a low setting. Blend until reaching a smooth texture.
  5. Add a pinch of salt and lemon juice, blend for an additional 10 seconds and adjust flavors to preference.
  6. Transfer the pesto to an airtight container or serve over pasta.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 56mgPotassium: 20mgFiber: 0.5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

For optimal freshness, drizzle a layer of olive oil on top if storing in the fridge.

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