Basil Pesto Recipe
Basil pesto is an invigorating, aromatic sauce brimming with fresh, herbaceous flavor. This vibrant condiment is delightfully simple to prepare, making it an ideal accompaniment for warm, sunlit days.
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Servings: 10
Ingredients
- ¼ cup raw cashews
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup raw pine nuts
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups tightly packed fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano optional
- ⅔ cup olive oil plus additional if needed
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic
Instructions
- Toast the cashews and pine nuts in a dry skillet set over medium-low heat for approximately five minutes, stirring occasionally until lightly golden. Transfer the toasted nuts to a food processor or high-powered blender. Incorporate the basil leaves, garlic cloves, lemon juice, Parmigiano Reggiano if using, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Process by pulsing in a food processor until well combined or gradually increase speed in a blender, employing the tamper as needed, until the mixture achieves a smooth, creamy consistency.
Notes
Toasting the nuts enriches the depth of flavor but may be omitted if desired.