Fresh, Flavorful and Easy Homemade Pesto Recipes

Pesto, with its vibrant green hue and rich, savory flavor, is a versatile sauce that can elevate a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, spreading it on sandwiches, or using it as a dip, this Italian classic is a must-have in any culinary repertoire. Making homemade pesto is surprisingly simple and requires just a handful of fresh ingredients and basic kitchen tools.

Pesto is traditionally made from fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Originating from Genoa in the Liguria region of Italy, this uncooked sauce is renowned for its fresh, aromatic quality and versatility.

While basil is the most common herb used, variations abound, each offering a unique twist on the classic flavor profile. In this article, we’ll explore the classic basil pesto recipe, delve into creative variations, and provide tips for storage and serving.

Essential Equipment for Making Pesto

To prepare pesto at home, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Food Processor or Blender: These appliances make quick work of blending the ingredients into a smooth sauce.
• Mortar and Pestle: For a more traditional approach, use a mortar and pestle to grind the ingredients by hand, which can enhance the flavor.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure a balanced flavor.
• Spatula: A spatula helps scrape down the sides of the processor or blender to ensure even mixing.

Classic Basil Pesto

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

1. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, and pine nuts. Pulse until finely chopped.
2. Add the Parmesan cheese and pulse to combine.
3. While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container.

Note

For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the pine nuts before adding them to the processor.

Variations of Pesto

While the classic basil pesto is a favorite, there are numerous variations that incorporate different herbs, nuts, and even vegetables. Here are five unique pesto recipes to try:

1. Spinach and Walnut Pesto

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup walnuts
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

1. Combine spinach, walnuts, Parmesan, and garlic in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
2. Gradually add olive oil while processing until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Note

This pesto is a great way to use up extra spinach and adds a mild, earthy flavor to dishes.

2. Arugula Pesto

Ingredients

• 2 cups arugula leaves
• 1/4 cup almonds
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

1. Combine arugula, almonds, Parmesan, and garlic in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
2. Slowly add olive oil while processing until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Note

Arugula adds a peppery kick to this pesto, making it perfect for pairing with grilled meats.

3. Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto

Ingredients

• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

1. In a food processor, combine sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, Parmesan, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
2. Add olive oil gradually while processing until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Note

This pesto variation offers a rich, tangy flavor that’s excellent with pasta or as a spread on sandwiches.

4. Cilantro Pesto

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/4 cup cashews
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

1. Combine cilantro, cashews, Parmesan, and garlic in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
2. Slowly add olive oil while processing until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Note

Cilantro pesto has a fresh, citrusy flavor that pairs well with Mexican dishes.

Serving Suggestions for Pesto

Pesto’s versatility makes it a delightful addition to numerous dishes:

• Pasta: Toss pesto with your favorite pasta for a quick, flavorful meal. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein.
• Pizza: Use pesto as a base sauce for pizza, topped with mozzarella, tomatoes, and your choice of toppings.
• Sandwiches: Spread pesto on sandwiches or wraps for an extra layer of flavor.
• Salads: Drizzle pesto over salads as a dressing or mix it into grain salads for added depth.
• Grilled Vegetables: Brush pesto onto grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.

Common Mistakes & Fixes

• Over-Blending: Processing the pesto for too long can result in a paste-like consistency. Pulse the ingredients just until combined to maintain some texture.
• Using Bitter Olive Oil: Choose a high-quality, mild olive oil to avoid a bitter taste in your pesto.
• Skimping on Salt: Salt enhances the flavors in pesto. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Storing Pesto Improperly: Pesto can oxidize and lose its vibrant color. Store it in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to preserve freshness.

Storage and Freezing Tips

• Refrigeration: Store pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Add a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze pesto in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. This allows you to use small portions as needed.
• Thawing: Thaw frozen pesto in the refrigerator or add it directly to hot dishes to melt.

With these recipes and tips, you’re well-equipped to create delicious homemade pesto that will enhance a variety of dishes. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and discover your favorite pesto variation.