This fresh basil pesto is bursting with vibrant flavours! Made with fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, and garlic, it’s a perfect blend of savoury and nutty goodness. The extra virgin olive oil gives it a rich, smooth texture, making it ideal for drizzling over pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or using as a dip. You can even lighten it up by swapping half the basil for baby spinach. Simple to prepare and versatile, this pesto is a flavourful, homemade alternative to store-bought versions that you can enjoy in so many ways!
Fresh Basil Pesto
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed (can sub half the basil with baby spinach)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tbsp)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
- Pulse basil and pine nuts in a blender.
- Add garlic and cheese and pulse several times more.
- Scrape down the sides of the blender.
- While running, slowly pour in olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Estimated Nutrition per Serving (1/4 cup, recipe makes about 4 servings): 280 Calories; 4g Protein; 28g Fat; 3g Carbs