Here is how to make a simple pesto recipe in a food processor. Watch the video and then read on as we talk about pesto recipe variations and how you can use them for fabulous appetizers and for main course enhancements.
Ingredients for a basic, simple pesto:
- 1 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, pre-chopped or grated to make it easier on your food processor (too big chunks might get stuck on the blade and then put too much strain on the machine)
- 1 clove of fresh garlic
- the leaves of 2 bunches of fresh basil
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Run everything through your food processor until you like the consistency. The basil leaves should be added in batches, especially if you double or triple the recipe. That way you can scrape down the sides of the bowl for a more evenly processing. The cheese has a high salt content already, but taste your pesto and see if you want to season it some more.
Variations On A Simple Pesto Recipe
- use roasted garlic instead of fresh cloves (I like that one a lot!)
- toast the pine nuts before adding to the mix
- spike your pesto flavor with some lemon or lime juice (or zest)
- add other fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley to the basil leaves
- use different hard cheeses such as gruyere – instead of, or combined with parmesan
- try toasted pecans or hazelnuts (filberts) instead of pine nuts
How To Serve And Cook With Pesto
- spread on crackers and toasted bread
- spooned on sliced tomatoes or cucumbers
- scooped into mini tart shells, topped with goat cheese and baked
- stirred into vegetable soup or stew
- mixed with pasta sauce (marinara or bechamel)
- spread on a fish fillet, topped with a bread crumbs/parmesan mix and baked
- mix with cream cheese and use as filling for chicken breast or thick pork chops on the grill
This should give you some ideas for delicious uses of simple pesto, or for creating your personal version of this classic recipe. If you like the video, there are many more of them available over at Rouxbe Online Cooking School. They let you browse most of their materials for free for a 2-week trial period.
Find out more in my previous post on the Rouxbe Online Cooking School.
Photo courtesy of thebittenword. Thank you!
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