Am I the only one who finds store-bought Pesto Sauce expensive? If you answered yes to this question then I have a solution for you!
This Pesto Sauce recipe is an easy and more affordable way to make your own in the comfort of your own home.
Depending on how much pine nuts are in your area, it might actually be cheaper to buy your pesto sauce but what fun is that? In any case, I will leave it up to you which one is cheaper if costs are important to you.
How to Toast Pine Nuts
The simplest way to toast pine nuts is to add them to a small dry skillet (no oil) and over medium-low and cook them, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes. The pine nuts should be golden brown. Watch them carefully as they can easily burn.
Nut Allergy Warning
This recipe may contain peanuts or other nuts and seeds as one of its ingredients. Please take the appropriate precautions.
But where does Pesto come from anyway? I was wondering the same thing so I decided to look it up. This article explains it best.
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In addition to using this sauce with pasta, you can also use it with this Baked Turkey Pesto Sliders recipe.
Gather your Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to make this Pesto Sauce recipe. For ingredient amounts please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Fresh Basil
- Pine Nuts
- Garlic Cloves – Use more to taste if desired
- Parmesan Cheese – shredded or grated
- Olive Oil – Try to use the best quality olive oil you can
- Kosher Salt – regular salt is fine too
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Leave this ingredient out if you don’t like heat
How to Make Pesto Sauce
- Puree the basil, pine nuts, garlic and salt in a food processor. While pureeing, gradually add olive oil.
- Stir in the parmesan cheese and chili flakes.
Printable Recipe Card
Blondie’s Pesto Sauce
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Ingredients
- 4 Cups Fresh Basil
- ⅓ Cup Pine Nuts, Toasted
- 1 Garlic Clove
- ¼ Cup Parmesan Cheese, Grated
- ½ Cup Olive Oil
- ½ Tsp Kosher Salt
- 1 Tbsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
Instructions
- Puree basil, pine nuts, garlic and salt in a food processor. While pureeing, gradually add olive oil.
- Stir in parmesan cheese and chili flakes.
Notes
Equipment Needed
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This Pesto Sauce is great and very tasty. If you like Basil this recipe is a must.