What You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients ready. Fresh basil leaves are essential for that authentic flavor, so if possible, pick some from your garden or buy them fresh from the market. The quality of the ingredients will greatly impact the taste of your pesto.
Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until they turn light golden brown. Be careful not to burn them, as they can quickly go from golden to charred. Toasting the pine nuts will enhance their nutty flavor and add an extra dimension to your pesto.
Step 3: Blend the Ingredients
In your blender, add the fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil as you blend the ingredients until everything is well combined and forms a smooth paste. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender a few times to ensure everything is properly mixed.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Once blended, give your pesto a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or even some additional grated Parmesan cheese if you prefer a stronger flavor. Feel free to get creative and adjust the recipe to suit your personal taste.
Step 5: Serve or Store
Your Pesto alla Genovese is now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it immediately with your favorite pasta, spread it on toasted bread, or use it as a dip. If you have leftovers, store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To prevent discoloration, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the top before sealing.
Final Thoughts
Making Pesto alla Genovese with a blender is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this classic Italian sauce. With just a few simple steps, you can recreate the authentic flavors right in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the blender, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of homemade pesto!