Pesto is a beloved sauce that has its roots in Italy but has now become a staple in kitchens worldwide. This classic sauce is made with just a few simple ingredients - basil leaves, garlic, olive oil, grated cheese, and pine nuts - that come together to create a flavor explosion in every bite. In this article, we will show you how to make pesto with this easy-to-follow pesto recipe.

Making pesto is easy, and with the right tools, you can have it ready in no time. All you need is a food processor or a mortar and pestle

Usage suggestions

Now that you know how to make pesto, it's time to discover its many uses.

Pesto is a versatile sauce, that is full of flavor and can instantly elevate almost any dish. Here are some great uses for pesto:

• Sauce with pasta
• Served as a sauce for grilled or roasted meats or vegetables
• Mixed with cream cheese for a bagel spread
• Spread on sandwiches
• Mixed with mayonnaise for a dip
• Used as a pizza topping
• Stirred into soups or stews
• Used as a marinade for chicken or fish
• Topping on scrambled eggs or omelettes
• The possibilities are endless, and the flavor is always delicious

With this easy pesto recipe, you can make a batch homemade pesto in no time.

Homemade pesto is a must try, it's so much better than store bought. It's also easy to customize, based on what you like or have available. For ideas, take a look at our other great pesto recipes, and our ultimatej guide to making pesto.

So, what are you waiting for? Get started on your pesto-making journey today!

Tips

• Don't be afraid to experiment and get creative with making and using pesto at home.
• Use fresh ingredients if you can: It does make a difference in the final flavor of your pesto.
• Adjust the ingredients to your taste: Pesto is a very adaptable recipe, so feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. For example, you can add more garlic or nuts if you prefer a stronger flavor, or reduce the amount of oil if you prefer a thicker consistency.
• Want a smooth sauce? Gradually add the oil: When adding the oil to the food processor or blender, add it gradually while the machine is running. This will help the ingredients emulsify and create a smooth and creamy pesto.
• Want a coarser texture? Add everything to the food processor at once and pulse for a short time, or make pesto the traditional way, with a mortar and pestle
• Store the pesto properly: Once your pesto is made, transfer it to a clean, airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Pesto will keep for up to a week or two in the refrigerator, or up to six months in the freezer.