Creamy Pesto
Creamy pesto offers a rich, herbaceous flavor perfect for pasta, combining fresh basil, Parmesan, garlic, and olive oil for a versatile and delicious sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and dry the basil.
- Place the basil in a food processor.
- Chop the basil briefly.
- Add eggs, vinegar, Parmesan cheese, and garlic to the processor.
- Process until smooth.
- With the machine running, slowly add the olive oil in a thin stream until fully incorporated.
- Serve the sauce on pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts to the food processor along with the basil. If you want a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the eggs. Be sure to use high-quality olive oil for the best taste, and feel free to customize the garlic based on your preference for intensity.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pesto pairs beautifully with pasta, particularly with dishes like Mama'S Baked Spaghetti And Meatballs or Cheese Filled Manicotti. Consider serving it alongside a light Mushroom Toss Salad for a well-rounded meal. It also works great as a spread on sandwiches or as a dip for fresh vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover creamy pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, simply toss it with freshly cooked pasta over low heat until warmed through. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water to achieve the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Pesto contains roughly 997 calories, with 19g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (143% of the Daily Value), calcium (64% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 543mg per serving (24% 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 use dried basil instead of fresh?
While dried basil can be used in a pinch, it won't provide the same vibrant flavor and aroma as fresh basil. If using dried, use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this creamy pesto is suitable for vegetarians. The ingredients primarily consist of plant-based items, though it does include eggs. If you need a vegan version, consider using a vegan egg substitute or silken tofu.
Can I freeze the creamy pesto for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the creamy pesto into ice cube trays or small containers, then cover tightly. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using, and mix in a bit of olive oil if it thickens during freezing.
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).