Blender Pesto
Blender pesto offers a vibrant, fresh flavor with aromatic basil and sharp cheeses, perfect for pasta or as a spread. Its creamy texture and nutty undertones make it a versatile, crowd-pleasing sauce suitable for quick weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place basil, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, and salt in a blender.
- Mix at high speed, stopping to scrape sides of the blender with a rubber spatula as needed.
- When ingredients are evenly blended, pour into a bowl.
- Beat by hand the grated Parmesan and Romano cheeses.
- Add softened butter and mix well.
- Before spooning pesto over pasta, add 1 tablespoon water from the cooked pasta to the pesto.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, try substituting walnuts for pine nuts. If you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of olive oil or use a blend of olive oil and vegetable oil. To prevent browning of the basil, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice. This pesto also works well with other herbs like parsley or cilantro for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
This pesto is perfect over pasta, especially with dishes like Pesto Tortellini or Pasta With Zucchini. You can also use it as a spread for sandwiches or a dip for fresh vegetables. Consider pairing it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or using it as a flavorful topping for baked potatoes or pizzas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To prevent oxidation, cover the surface of the pesto with a thin layer of olive oil before sealing. If you want to freeze it, portion it into ice cube trays, freeze, and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blender Pesto contains roughly 305 calories, with 18g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (156% of the Daily Value), calcium (74% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2161mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make pesto without cheese?
Absolutely! You can omit the cheese to make a vegan version or substitute nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This will still give you a delicious, herbaceous sauce that can be enjoyed in various dishes.
How can I make my pesto less oily?
If you find the pesto too oily, simply reduce the amount of olive oil used. You can also add more basil or fresh vegetables, such as spinach, to bulk it up without adding extra oil. Mixing in some cooked pasta water can help create a smoother consistency.
What dishes can I pair with pesto?
Pesto pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes, particularly those featuring fresh vegetables or proteins. Try it with Pasta With Zucchini or as a drizzle on grilled meats and seafood. It also enhances flavor when used as a spread on sandwiches or pizza, making it a versatile addition to many meals.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).