Ingredients

The following ingredients have 1 Servings
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 2 to 3 large cloves garlic, peeled
  • 1/2 cup pecans
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan, optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup neutral oil, such as avocado or vegetable oil
  • Additional oil, if needed
  • Additional salt and pepper, to taste

Instruction

  • Remove any large stems (small stems are okay) from the basil, and add it to the bowl of your food processor or blender.
  • Add the garlic, pecans, parmesan cheese if using, salt, pepper, and 1/4 cup of olive oil.
  • Blend until the mixture starts to come together, scraping down the sides often.
  • Add additional oil a little at a time until the mixture comes together, scraping down the sides often, until it becomes well-mixed but not too oily. You are after a paste or sauce texture that is a little on the thick side.
  • Give it a taste, and add additional salt and pepper to taste.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 10 days or in the freezer for much longer.
  • Serve over hot pasta, toss grilled or roasted veggies with it, make a pesto sandwich with it, and it's also great on chicken and fish.