How to make pesto sauce from scratch at home for family
Pesto sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes. Making pesto sauce from scratch at home is easy and requires only a few ingredients.
Can pesto be used with any ingredients?
Pesto is a very versatile sauce and can go along with different types of ingredients such as vegetables, meat as well and seafood.
What is the shelf life for pesto sauce made at home?
Pesto sauce sold in the market can last about 1 to 2 months in the fridge while pesto sauce which is made at home can last about 3 to 5 days if stored in an airtight container. If you use olive oil in the pesto sauce as mentioned below, the shelf life will be extended.
Should pesto sauce be heated for a long duration?
Pesto sauce was essentially made to be had in its raw nature. Pesto sauce can be heated for a short duration as overheating the pesto sauce can cause the pesto sauce to lose its flavor as well as its brilliant green color.
Can you freeze pesto sauce made at home?
Pesto sauce can be kept in the freezer for as long as 6 months if you don't plan on using the pesto sauce on a regular basis rather more occasionally.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make pesto sauce at home:
Ingredients:
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
3 cloves garlic, peeled
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly browned and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, and toasted pine nuts. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and pulse again until well combined.
With the food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips:
If you don't have pine nuts, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds.
You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavor of the pesto.
Pesto sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for up to 3 months.
In conclusion, making pesto sauce from scratch at home is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to customize the flavor to your liking. With just a few ingredients and a food processor, you can create a delicious and versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes.