Quick And Easy Nut Free Pesto Recipe

This vibrant nut free pesto bursts with garden fresh basil and zesty garlic. Enhanced by rich Parmesan and extra virgin olive oil, its inviting texture and irresistible aroma elevate every dish from pasta to pizza. Experience the harmony of luscious, bright ingredients that transform meals into gourmet festivals of flavor.

I’ve always been a fan of quick, simple recipes that are full of nutritional benefits and this nut free pesto is one of my favorites. I made this recipe because I needed something that was not only delicious but also suitable for those avoiding nuts.

I start with 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, which are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, then I roughly mince 2 garlic cloves that boost flavor and even help with heart health. Add in 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil that brings a shot of healthy fats and 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese that adds protein and a rich taste.

This basic pesto recipe is a real lifesaver when I’m in a rush, and it’s a perfect match for pasta, pizza, poultry and veggies. Its simplicity, combined with all those good-for-you ingredients, makes this easy basil pesto recipe a staple in my kitchen.

Enjoy and tweak it to your taste!

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I love how simple this recipe is even though it uses only a few ingredients like fresh basil and garlic, it still packs an amazing flavor that always reminds me of summer.
2. I really enjoy that its super quick and easy to make—I can whip it up in no time even when im in a rush.
3. I appreciate that its nut free and still full of taste so everyone in my family can eat it without worry.
4. I like that its versatile and works great on pasta, pizza, poultry or even veggies making it a real lifesaver for dinner ideas.

Ingredients

• Basil is a vibrant herb loaded with antioxidants and a fresh aroma.
• Adds a naturally sweet and peppery flavor to the pesto.
• Garlic provides a punch of flavor and a healthy dose of antioxidants.
• Its spicy kick mellows during cooking for a smooth garlic taste.
• Extra virgin olive oil is heart friendly and rich in healthy fats.
• It gives the pesto a luscious, smooth texture and subtle fruity notes.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds savory, salty flavor and protein.
• Enhances thickness and brings umami depth that complements basil and garlic.
• This nut free pesto is quick, easy and versatile for any meal.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed tightly
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled and roughly minced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make this

1. Wash the basil leaves thoroughly and pat them dry.

2. Peel and roughly mince the garlic cloves.

3. Add the basil and garlic into a food processor.

4. With the food processor running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil.

5. Once everything is blended well, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

6. Pulse a few more times until the mixture is smooth but still has a bit of texture.

7. Taste the pesto and if needed add a pinch of salt or more cheese depending on your preference.

8. Spoon the pesto over your favorite pasta, pizza, poultry or veggies.

9. Enjoy your quick and easy nut free pesto right away or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for later use.

Equipment Needed

1. Food processor
2. Chef’s knife
3. Cutting board
4. Colander
5. Measuring cup
6. Spatula (or serving spoon)
7. Airtight container (for storing leftovers)

FAQ

Quick And Easy Nut Free Pesto Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you don’t have basil, you can use about 2 cups of arugula for a slightly spicier twist
• If fresh garlic ain’t available, try using 1 teaspoon of garlic powder instead
• If you prefer a different oil, avocado oil works pretty good in place of extra virgin olive oil
• If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, you can swap it out with Pecorino Romano or even a bit of Asiago cheese

Pro Tips

1. If ya want to keep that vibrant green color, try squeezing a little lemon juice into your pesto once it’s blended; it not only keeps the color poppin’ but also adds a tangy twist.
2. When you’re mincing the garlic, don’t overdo it. Even a bit of texture can give the pesto a cool, homemade feel instead of being all mushy.
3. Consider warming up the olive oil ever so slightly before drizzling it in—it helps the flavors marry better, makin the whole sauce smoother without losing that chunky vibe.
4. Taste as you go! A pinch of salt or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan at the end can really lift the sauce, so don’t be afraid to tweak it to fit your taste buds.