Classic Basil Pesto
Photo: Dan Goldberg; Styling: Dan Becker
This recipe, originally published (in narrative form) in a 1959 issue of Sunset, was one of the first pesto recipes in the United States. Catering to modern tastes, we've reduced the 3/4 cup oil in the original to just more than 1/4 cup. The flavors remain true in this Italian dish.
How to Make It
Step 1
1
Put basil in a mortar with garlic, romano cheese, pine nuts, parsley, and salt. Pound until smooth, then add olive oil and mix until smooth. Or, whirl all ingredients in a blender.
Step 2
2
Note: Nutritional analysis is per tbsp.
Ingredients
1/2 cup basil leaves
4 large or 6 medium garlic cloves
1/3 cup shredded romano cheese
3 tablespoons pine nuts
2 tablespoons minced parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup plus 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
Directions
Step 1
1
Put basil in a mortar with garlic, romano cheese, pine nuts, parsley, and salt. Pound until smooth, then add olive oil and mix until smooth. Or, whirl all ingredients in a blender.
Step 2
2
Note: Nutritional analysis is per tbsp.
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