Pesto is a popular, simple Italian sauce that packs a great deal of flavor. It requires only a few ingredients, and it's well worth your time and effort to make at home.
The most basic recipe for requires three main ingredients: (1) a green, (2) an oil, and (3) a nut. Each element adds a different slant to the flavor of the dish. The most traditional style of Italian pesto is made with basil, olive oil, and pine nuts and also Parmesan cheese. For truly authentic pesto, you’ll want to finely chop all of the ingredients by hand using a sharp knife or a mezzaluna, but it works well to use a food processor to coarsely grind all the ingredients and does not change the flavor.
Another great thing about pesto is that it can be used in so many ways. Toss it with pasta, such as spiral noodles, that will capture the sauce. It's also great as a marinade for chicken, toasted on Italian bread, or used as a condiment on sandwiches.
After you’ve mastered pesto the traditional way, feel free to experiment with a variety of ingredients. Cashews or walnuts can make a great replacement for expensive pine nuts, and using kale instead of basil can make a delicious healthy pesto.
Bon appetit!
