Making fresh pesto is easy and delicious. The best type of easy recipes are ones you adapt over time to your own household and abilities. Start experimenting with the ratios and ingredients in your own “house pesto” sauce. You are in the driver’s seat. You can control the portions and the flavors. Hate garlic? Don’t use it. Don’t want to pay for the pricey pine nuts? Sub in walnuts or almonds you may have already in your pantry. Basil is typically the main character in a pesto recipe. But even if you don’t have access to basil, you can still make a delicious rustic pesto sauce using another form of greens. Sub the basil for spinach, collard greens, kale, parsley, or even fresh mint.
Optional: Toast your pine nuts before blending. This can be either done on a stovetop (3 minutes over medium heat on dry skillet) or in your oven (5 minutes at 350 degrees on a baking sheet). Need a new oven or cooktop? Contact the appliance experts at Village Home Stores for your local low price guaranteed.