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Ever wonder how to make a sauce that’s so versatile and flavorful, you’ll want to add it to everything? Garlic basil pesto recipe is the answer! This classic Italian recipe is the perfect combination of fresh basil, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese. It’s not just a sauce; it’s the magic touch your meals need.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through everything step-by-step: the simple ingredients, how to prepare it, and a few tips to make it just right. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, spreading it on bread, or using it as a dip, this pesto will take your cooking to the next level. Let’s dive in! 🌿🧄

What Is Garlic Basil Pesto?

Garlic basil pesto is a traditional Italian sauce made from a blend of fresh basil leaves, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and nuts (typically pine nuts). Originating from Genoa in northern Italy, the word “pesto” comes from pestare, meaning “to crush” or “to pound,” as it was originally made using a mortar and pestle. Today, we make pesto quickly using modern tools like food processors, but the rich flavor remains the same.

Ingredients for Garlic Basil Pesto Recipe

To make the perfect garlic basil pesto, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:

Ingredient	Quantity
Fresh Basil Leaves 🌿	2 cups (packed)
Garlic Cloves 🧄	2-3 cloves
Parmesan Cheese 🧀	1/3 cup (grated)
Pine Nuts (or Walnuts)	1/4 cup (lightly toasted)
Extra Virgin Olive Oil 🫒	1/2 cup
Salt and Pepper	To taste
Lemon Juice (optional)	1 tablespoon

Pro Tip: Toasting the nuts for a few minutes in a dry skillet can enhance their flavor and aroma.

How to Make Garlic Basil Pesto

This pesto recipe is super simple and takes just 10 minutes to make. Here’s how:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Wash the basil leaves and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Peel the garlic cloves.
Grate the Parmesan cheese if it’s not pre-grated.

Step 2: Toast the Nuts (Optional)

If you’re using pine nuts or another type of nut, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Blend the Ingredients

Add the basil leaves, garlic, toasted nuts, and Parmesan cheese to a food processor.
Pulse the mixture a few times until it’s coarsely chopped.

Step 4: Add Olive Oil

With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Blend until the mixture reaches your desired consistency. The pesto should be smooth but still slightly chunky.

Step 5: Season and Adjust

Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
If you’d like a brighter flavor, mix in a tablespoon of lemon juice.

Step 6: Taste Test

Taste your pesto and adjust the seasoning or consistency as needed. If it’s too thick, add a bit more olive oil or a splash of water.

Tips for Perfect Pesto

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh basil and garlic for the best flavor.
Don’t Overblend: Pesto should have some texture, so pulse the ingredients instead of blending them into a paste.
Balance the Flavors: If your pesto tastes too sharp, add more cheese or a small amount of olive oil to mellow it out.

How to Store Garlic Basil Pesto

Refrigeration

Store your pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. To keep it from turning brown, pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top before sealing the container.

Freezing

Pesto freezes beautifully! Spoon it into an ice cube tray for individual portions, freeze, then transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag. It’ll last for up to 3 months.

Creative Ways to Use Garlic Basil Pesto

Pasta: Toss it with spaghetti, penne, or gnocchi for a quick and delicious meal.
Bread: Spread it on sandwiches, crostini, or even garlic bread.
Pizza: Use pesto as a base instead of traditional tomato sauce.
Salads: Mix a spoonful into salad dressings for an herby kick.
Marinades: Coat chicken, fish, or shrimp with pesto before grilling or baking.

Nutritional Facts

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values for a 2-tablespoon serving of garlic basil pesto:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	150
Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	2.5g
Sodium	150mg
Carbohydrates	2g
Protein	3g

Note: These values can vary depending on the type and quantity of ingredients used.

Recipe Card

Final Thoughts

Garlic basil pesto is a simple yet incredibly flavorful sauce that can elevate any dish. Once you’ve tried making it at home, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought versions. Whether you’re a fan of pasta, bread, or pizza, this pesto is guaranteed to add a fresh, zesty kick to your meals.

So grab your ingredients, fire up the food processor, and enjoy the magic of homemade garlic basil pesto. Bon appétit! 🌿🧄✨

Try Next: If you love using fresh sauces like this pesto, you might also enjoy our Steak Recipe the perfect pairing for dipping and spreading your pesto! 🍞🧄