Elevate Your Meals with a Classic Pesto Recipe
Pesto is a versatile condiment that can transform a simple weeknight pasta dinner into a flavorful masterpiece. It’s also a great addition to eggs, sandwiches, and soups. To mix things up, try substituting basil with parsley or arugula for a unique twist.
The Perfect Pesto Formula
This recipe yields 4 servings and takes only 15 minutes to prepare. With its ease of preparation and rich flavor, it’s no wonder pesto has become a staple in many kitchens.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 25 fresh, medium basil leaves
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 1 garlic clove, crushed (optional)
- Kosher salt
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper
Processing Perfection
To create your pesto, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Blend the Basics
Place the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic (if using), and a pinch of salt in a food processor fitted with a blade attachment. Process for about 5 or 6 (1-second) pulses.
Step 2: Add the Cheesy Goodness
Add the grated cheeses and process for another 5 or 6 (1-second) pulses.
Step 3: Stream in the Oil
With the motor running, add the oil in a slow, steady stream and process until the mixture’s smooth.
Step 4: Season to Perfection
Taste the pesto and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Preserving Your Pesto
Once prepared, your pesto can be tightly covered with plastic wrap and refrigerated for several days or frozen for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to whip up a delicious meal at a moment’s notice.
By mastering this classic pesto recipe, you’ll unlock a world of flavorful possibilities for your meals. Experiment with different herbs and ingredients to create your own unique variations!
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