How to Make Proper Pesto - A Step-by-Step Guide

Proper Pesto is a classic Italian sauce that is incredibly versatile and bursting with flavor. This simple yet delicious recipe is a staple in Italian cuisine and can be used as a topping for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, a dip for vegetables, and so much more. It's a great way to add a burst of fresh, vibrant flavor to any dish.

One of the best things about Proper Pesto is its simplicity. Made with just a handful of fresh ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare, and t...

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Ingredients

  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 large bunch fresh basil (about 4 to 5 ounces)
  • 3 tablespoons pine nuts
  • 2 ounces finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • ½ cup mild extra-virgin olive oil

Information

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 20 mins
  • Servings: 8

  • Crush garlic and pinch of kosher salt in a mortar with the pestle until garlic is mashed and paste-like, 1 or 2 minutes. Add basil in 3 or 4 additions, crushing and pounding down the leaves until they form a fairly fine paste, about 8 minutes or more depending on size of leaves and thickness of stems. Add and pound in pine nuts.
  • Transfer a handful of grated cheese to mortar and pound into the sauce. Add another handful of cheese and incorporate into the mixture. Continue adding cheese a handful at a time until completely incorporated, about 5 minutes.
  • Drizzle in olive oil 1 tablespoon at a time, pounding it into the sauce. When all the olive oil has been added and emulsified into the mixture, transfer pesto to a bowl and drizzle the surface with olive oil.
  • Nutrition

    181 cal.

    • Total Fat: 18g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
    • Cholesterol: 6mg
    • Sodium: 169mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 2g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0g
    • Total Sugars: 0g
    • Protein: 4g
    • Vitamin C: 3mg
    • Calcium: 110mg
    • Iron: 1mg
    • Potassium: 81mg