Pesto Sauce With Pine Nuts
A vibrant pesto sauce with pine nuts, fresh basil, garlic, and cheeses, perfect for pasta, ravioli, or sliced boiled potatoes, offering rich, nutty, and herbaceous flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine garlic, basil, pine nuts, half and half, and salt in a blender.
- Blend at low speed until ingredients are chopped fine and form a paste.
- Gradually blend in olive oil alternately with cheese, blending until well mixed.
- Gradually add whipping cream, stirring until well mixed.
- Use as sauce for pasta.
- Good on ravioli or on sliced boiled potatoes.
- Note: The sauce is a little on the firm side; slice potatoes thinly for best use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother pesto, consider using a food processor instead of a blender. If you're short on pine nuts, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes, adding a different flavor profile. To enhance the basil's freshness, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice. This sauce can be adjusted in creaminess by varying the amount of half and half or whipping cream used, so feel free to experiment.
Serving Suggestions
This pesto sauce is excellent over pasta, especially with ravioli or gnocchi. It also pairs beautifully with sliced boiled potatoes for a unique side dish. Consider serving it alongside a crisp salad or as a dip for fresh bread. For an Italian-inspired meal, serve it with a side of Spicy Pasta Casserole or a slice of Italian New York Cheesecake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm the sauce on low heat while stirring to maintain its creamy texture. If it thickens too much, you can add a splash of olive oil or additional cream to restore its consistency. Avoid freezing as the cream may separate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pesto Sauce With Pine Nuts contains roughly 695 calories, with 20g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (86% of the Daily Value), calcium (52% of the Daily Value), and protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2192mg per serving (95% 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 this pesto sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this pesto sauce ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep the vibrant green color, consider drizzling a little olive oil on top before sealing. This will help prevent oxidation. Use within a week for the best flavor and freshness.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you need a substitute for Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano is a great option as it has a similar texture and a slightly sharper flavor. Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free alternative, offering a cheesy taste without the cheese. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.
How can I use leftover pesto sauce?
Leftover pesto sauce can be used in various ways. Toss it with roasted vegetables, spread it on sandwiches, or use it as a dressing for salads. You can also mix it into scrambled eggs for a flavorful breakfast or drizzle it over grilled meats for added richness. The possibilities are endless!
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).