Pesto Recipe

Pesto – Fresh, Nutritious, and Full of Flavour 🌱

Pesto is a classic Italian sauce celebrated for its vibrant green colour, aromatic flavour, and versatility in cooking. Traditionally made with fresh basil, nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, pesto can be used as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, a topping for roasted vegetables, or even a flavourful dip. Its combination of fresh herbs, healthy fats, and aromatic ingredients makes it both delicious and nutritious.

Basil, the star ingredient, is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and K, and phytonutrients that support immunity, cardiovascular health, and reduce oxidative stress. Nuts such as pine nuts, walnuts, or cashews provide plant-based protein, healthy fats, and minerals like magnesium and zinc, which support energy, brain function, and heart health. Olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, while garlic contributes antimicrobial and immune-supporting compounds. Optional Parmesan or nutritional yeast adds flavour and additional protein.

One of the best features of pesto is its versatility and ease of preparation. A food processor or blender is all you need to create a smooth, aromatic sauce in minutes. You can also experiment with variations by adding fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or rocket, or swapping nuts to create unique flavours. Lemon juice can be added for brightness, or chilli flakes for a subtle kick.

Homemade pesto is not only fresh and flavourful but also free from preservatives and additives found in many store-bought options. It’s a simple way to enhance meals while boosting nutrient intake, making it a staple for anyone seeking wholesome, convenient, and flavour-packed cuisine.

Make a batch of this and it wont last long in the fridge! Add it to pasta, rice, savoury baking and even use it as a dip for crackers/ vegetable sticks.  Highly cleansing and nutritionally packed with healthy greens for vitality, this recipe is an ideal inclusion for your weekly meal planning.

INGREDIENTS

  • 1/4 cup pinenuts
  • 1 & 1/2 cups basil leaves
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 50g grated parmesan
  • 5 tbsp olive oil
  • pinch of salt

METHOD

  • blend all ingredients
  • use as a dip for crackers, vegetable sticks, on toast or make pesto pasta!