Step-by-Step

Making homemade pesto sauce is simple! Follow these steps for a rich, flavorful pesto sauce that will have your taste buds dancing.

Step 1: Prep the Basil

Begin by washing your fresh basil leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner. You want the leaves to be dry before you blend them, so they don't add excess water to the pesto.

Step 2: Toast the Nuts (Optional)

To enhance the flavor of the pine nuts, you can lightly toast them. Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes until they turn golden brown. This step is optional, but it adds a lovely, roasted note to the pesto. Be sure to keep an eye on them, as nuts can burn quickly.

Step 3: Blend the Ingredients

Add your basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan to a food processor or blender. Pulse a few times until everything is finely chopped but not pureed. This will give your pesto sauce a nice, rustic texture.

Step 4: Add Olive Oil

While the processor is running, gradually drizzle in your olive oil. Continue blending until the pesto becomes a smooth, creamy sauce. If it's too thick, add a little more olive oil until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Season

Taste your pesto and adjust the seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to add a little extra garlic or Parmesan if you like a stronger flavor.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Your pesto is now ready to be enjoyed! You can toss it with freshly cooked pasta, spread it on sandwiches, drizzle it over roasted vegetables, or even use it as a dip.