Basil Walnut Pesto


This pesto is a great way to use up any extra basil you have lying around, and the walnuts give it a lovely rich flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch of basil, leaves only
  • 1/2 cup of walnuts
  • 1/2 cup of olive oil
  • 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese
  • 1 clove of garlic
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method

  1. Put all of the ingredients into a food processor or blender, and blend until smooth.
  2. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
  3. Store in a jar in the fridge for up to a week.

Potential changes & improvements

  • If you want a thinner pesto, add a little more olive oil.
  • For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese.
  • To make it spicier, add a pinch of chili flakes.

What other food works well with

  • Pasta
  • Pizza
  • Chicken
  • Fish
  • Salad

Common Mistakes

  • Not blending the pesto enough, so it’s still a bit chunky.
  • Not tasting the pesto before you store it, and then realizing it’s too bland/salty/peppery.

Nutritional Information

  • This pesto is high in fat and calories, due to the olive oil and Parmesan cheese.
  • It is also high in sodium if you use Parmesan cheese that is high in sodium.

Allergens

  • Basil
  • Walnuts
  • Olive oil
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Garlic

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