Basil Pesto Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, basil pesto is a classic Italian sauce that adds a burst of herbaceous goodness to any dish. Whether you’re looking to jazz up your pasta, drizzle it over roasted veggies, or use it as a spread for sandwiches, this vegetarian basil pesto recipe is a must-have in your kitchen repertoire.

Made with fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan, and olive oil, this homemade pesto is far superior to store-bought versions. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and takes just minutes to whip up.

Perfect for vegetarians and anyone who loves a fresh, green sauce, this recipe uses simple ingredients that highlight the bright, aromatic qualities of basil. If you’re new to making pesto at home, don’t worry—this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious, versatile, and wholesome basil pesto that can elevate even the simplest meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This basil pesto recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients and simplicity. You’ll love it because it’s:

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 10 minutes with just a food processor.
• Fresh and vibrant: Uses garden-fresh basil for the best flavor.
• Versatile: Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, dips, and more.
• Vegetarian-friendly: No meat or animal products beyond cheese, making it ideal for vegetarians.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak to your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed, washed and dried)
• 1/3 cup pine nuts (lightly toasted for extra flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic (peeled and roughly chopped)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt to taste (start with 1/4 teaspoon)
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)

Equipment

• Food processor or blender (to blend the ingredients smoothly)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula (to scrape down the sides)
• Small skillet (for toasting pine nuts)
• Glass jar or airtight container (for storing pesto)

Instructions

1. Toast the pine nuts: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and stir frequently until they turn golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Prepare the basil: Wash the basil leaves thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Excess moisture can dilute the pesto’s flavor.
3. Pulse garlic and pine nuts: In your food processor, add the toasted pine nuts and garlic cloves. Pulse a few times until finely chopped.
4. Add basil and cheese: Add the fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese to the food processor. Pulse several times until the mixture is coarsely chopped.
5. Slowly add olive oil: With the processor running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Continue blending until the pesto reaches your desired consistency—smooth or slightly chunky.
6. Season and finish: Add salt, freshly ground black pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Pulse a couple more times to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Store or serve: Transfer the pesto to a glass jar or airtight container. Drizzle a little olive oil on top to prevent browning if storing. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to one week.

Tips & Variations

“To keep your pesto bright green, blanch the basil leaves in boiling water for 10 seconds, then immediately transfer them to ice water before blending.”

• Nut alternatives: Swap pine nuts for walnuts, almonds, or cashews for a different flavor profile.
• Dairy-free option: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan pesto.
• Herb blends: Mix basil with fresh parsley or mint for a unique twist.
• Storage tip: Freeze pesto in ice cube trays for easy portioning and longer shelf life.
• Add veggies: Blend in a handful of spinach or kale for extra greens without overpowering the basil flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Basil pesto is incredibly versatile and can elevate many dishes. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

• Toss with pasta: Mix pesto with freshly cooked spaghetti or penne for a quick meal.
• Spread on sandwiches: Use pesto instead of mayo for a flavorful vegetarian sandwich.
• Drizzle over roasted vegetables: Add a spoonful of pesto to roasted potatoes, zucchini, or carrots.
• Top pizza: Swirl pesto on pizza crust before baking or drizzle after it’s cooked.
• Mix into salad dressings: Whisk pesto with a bit of vinegar or lemon juice for a fresh salad dressing.

If you love this basil pesto, you might also enjoy trying other tasty vegetarian recipes like our Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe for a flavorful plant-based meal or check out our Half Runner Beans Recipe for a healthy veggie side dish.

For a cozy dessert to finish your meal, don’t miss the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe.

Conclusion

This basil pesto recipe is a delightful way to bring fresh, aromatic flavors into your kitchen with minimal effort. It’s perfect for vegetarians and anyone who appreciates a wholesome, homemade sauce.

The combination of fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan creates a rich and creamy texture that’s simply irresistible.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, making pesto at home is a rewarding experience that enhances any meal. Plus, you can customize it to your liking and keep it on hand for quick additions to your dishes.

Next time you want a burst of green goodness, whip up this basil pesto and enjoy the vibrant taste of Italy right in your own home!

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