Basil Pesto Recipe 🌿🍝🧄

Basil Pesto Recipe 🌿🍝🧄 Introduction 🌟 Basil pesto is a vibrant and flavorful sauce originating from Italy, traditionally used in pasta dishes but versatile enough to complement various dishes. This homemade recipe captures the freshness of basil, the richness of Parmesan cheese, and the nuttiness of pine nuts. Enjoy the classic taste of basil pesto with this easy-to-follow recipe! 🎉🍽️ Ingredients 🛒🌿 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed 🌿 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 🫒 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts 🌰 3 garlic cloves, minced 🧄 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste 🧂 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste 🧂 Instructions 👨‍🍳📜 Toast the Pine Nuts (Optional): If desired, lightly toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are lightly golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool. 🌰 Combine Basil and Nuts: In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves and toasted pine nuts (or walnuts). Pulse several times until coarsely chopped. 🌿🌰 Add Garlic and Cheese: Add the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese to the basil mixture. Pulse again until well combined and finely chopped. 🧄🧀 Stream in Olive Oil: While the food processor or blender is running, slowly pour in the olive oil in a steady stream. Continue processing until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency. 🫒