Description
This fresh and vibrant Basil Walnut Pesto is a quick and flavorful sauce perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip. Made with fresh basil, walnuts, parmesan, and a bright hint of lemon juice, it’s a delicious twist on the classic pesto with a nutty touch from walnuts and a subtle garlic kick.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh basil leaves (loosely packed)
- 2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (or 2 tablespoons EVOO + 2 tablespoons water for a lighter sauce)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup walnuts
- 1-2 cloves garlic (grated, to taste)
- Sea salt (to taste, about less than 1/8 teaspoon)
- Fresh ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the basil: Thoroughly wash the fresh basil leaves and remove them from their stems to ensure a smooth pesto texture without any tough bits.
- Blend the basil: Place the basil leaves into a blender. Use a tamper stick or the blender’s pulse function to break up the leaves, pushing them down frequently if necessary, until they are finely chopped.
- Add lemon juice and oils: Pour in the lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil (or olive oil and water mixture for a lighter version). Blend until the mixture turns into a consistent, slightly thick paste.
- Incorporate cheese and nuts: Add grated parmesan cheese and walnuts to the blender. Season with a pinch of sea salt and several twists of fresh ground black pepper.
- Season and finalize: Blend again until combined. Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning as needed. Grate in garlic carefully to control garlic intensity, remembering the flavor will become stronger over time.
Notes
- For a lighter pesto, substitute half the olive oil with water as indicated.
- The garlic flavor intensifies as the pesto rests, so start with less and add more gradually.
- Store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor; dried basil will not achieve the same vibrant taste.
- Walnuts add a rich, nutty flavor, but you can substitute with pine nuts or almonds if preferred.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
