Gather the Ingredients
Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time
The entire process should take around 10-15 minutes, depending on your blending technique and desired consistency.
The Steps
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your light green pesto:
Step 1: Toast the Pine Nuts
In a dry pan, lightly toast the pine nuts over medium heat until they turn golden brown. Stir them continuously to prevent burning. This step will bring out their nutty flavor and enhance the overall taste of the pesto.
Step 2: Blend the Basil and Garlic
In a food processor or blender, add the basil leaves and garlic cloves. Blend them until they are finely chopped.
Step 3: Add the Pine Nuts and Parmesan
Next, add the toasted pine nuts and grated Parmesan cheese to the basil-garlic mixture. Pulse the ingredients a few times until they are well combined.
Step 4: Drizzle in the Olive Oil
While the food processor/blender is running, slowly drizzle the extra virgin olive oil into the mixture. This will help emulsify and bind all the ingredients together. Continue blending until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste the pesto and season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. Feel free to add more Parmesan or basil leaves if desired. Once seasoned, your light green pesto is ready to be served with your favorite dish!
Storage Tips
If you have leftover pesto or want to make some in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to cover the surface of the pesto with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent it from oxidizing and turning brown. The pesto can be refrigerated for up to one week, or you can freeze it for future use.
Now that you have mastered the art of making light green pesto, unleash your creativity in the kitchen. Experiment by adding different herbs like parsley or kale, or even try incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a unique twist. Enjoy your homemade pesto and savor the burst of freshness and flavors it brings to your meals!