Basil Pesto

Traditionally basil pesto is made with pine nuts, but they’re expensive and sometimes hard to find so I generally use almonds. Basil pesto is also made with Parmesan cheese, but I generally skip the cheese.

Basil has exceptional flavor and is a rich source of nutrients – vitamins A and K, iron, calcium, magnesium and important phytonutrients (plant chemicals).  I like using fresh herbs as much as possible; they always have antiviral and antibacterial properties.

What is Basil Good For?

Basil Pesto

Print Recipe

• CourseDips and Spreads

Servings

1 cup

Servings 1 cup

Basil Pesto Print Recipe CourseDips and Spreads Servings 1 cup Servings 1 cup

Ingredients

• 1 cup almonds
• 1 garlic clove minced
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 - 4 tablespoons water
• 2 cups basil leaves washed and coarsely chopped

Adjust servings: cup

Units:MetricUS Imperial

Instructions

1. Toast almonds in skillet. Remove from skillet and set aside until cool.
2. Put almonds in food processor and grind fine. Add extra-virgin olive oil, water, garlic and half of basil. Process until mixed.
3. Add remaining basil and process again until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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