Basil-Walnut Pesto Recipe

Description:

This Basil-Walnut Pesto is a delightful blend of fresh basil, heart-healthy olive oil, crunchy walnuts, savory garlic, and tangy Parmesan cheese. Bursting with flavor and rich in “good” fats, this recipe is both indulgent and nutritious, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Inspired by “The Omega Diet,” it’s a summer sensation that’s ready in a flash, requiring no cooking at all. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, allowing you to enjoy its vibrant taste long after basil season has passed.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 213.8
• Fat Content: 20.9g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.7g
  • Cholesterol: 7.3mg
• Sodium Content: 129.2mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 2.8g
  • Fiber: 1.1g
  • Sugar: 0.4g
• Protein Content: 5.7g

Recipe Overview:

• Cook Time: 2 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 12 minutes
• Servings: 6

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather your fresh basil leaves, walnuts, garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, and butter (if using). Ensure all ingredients are measured and ready to go.

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2. Combine Ingredients: In a food processor, add the basil leaves, olive oil, walnuts, garlic cloves, and a pinch of salt, if desired.

3. Blend: Pulse the ingredients until they are thoroughly combined and form a smooth paste.

4. Add Parmesan and Butter: Next, add the Parmesan cheese and butter (if using) to the mixture in the food processor.

5. Blend Again: Pulse for an additional 5-10 seconds to incorporate the cheese and butter into the pesto, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.

6. Adjust Consistency: If the pesto seems too thick, you can add a little extra olive oil to reach your desired consistency.

7. Serve: Just before serving, add 2 tablespoons of hot pasta water from cooked pasta to the pesto. This will help create a creamy texture and ensure the pesto coats the pasta evenly.

8. Enjoy: Serve your homemade Basil-Walnut Pesto over your favorite pasta, accompanied by crusty bread and a fresh salad.

9. Storage: If you have leftover pesto, consider freezing it for future use. Place it in an airtight container or ice cube trays, and it will keep well for several months.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pasta: Toss the pesto with hot cooked pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Bread: Spread the pesto on toasted bread or use it as a dip for breadsticks.
• Salad: Drizzle the pesto over a mixed green salad or use it as a dressing for a Caprese salad.

Recipe Notes:

• For a nuttier flavor, toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the food processor.
• You can adjust the amount of garlic and Parmesan cheese to suit your taste preferences.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegetarian-friendly alternative.

This Basil-Walnut Pesto recipe is a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a taste of Italy, this homemade pesto is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors of fresh basil and toasted walnuts in every bite, and savor the satisfaction of creating a delicious and nutritious dish from scratch.