Ready in: 15 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Blending · Storage: Up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
To make a vibrant and flavorful basil sauce, blend fresh basil, nuts, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan, and lemon juice until smooth, season to taste, and enjoy it as a topping for various dishes.
As the vibrant colors of fall begin to paint the streets of New York City and the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafts through the air, I'm reminded of how culinary creations can elevate even the simplest dishes. Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations are around the corner, and this Very Incredible Basil Sauce is about to become your go-to companion for everything from roasted vegetables to holiday pasta dishes. Trust me, after trying this sauce, you'll find it difficult to resist its fresh, herby allure.
A Flavorful Companion for Holiday Meals
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Brightens up any dish with its fresh, herby flavor.
- Easy to make in under 15 minutes with minimal ingredients.
- Versatile sauce perfect for pasta, salads, and grilled proteins.
- Makes your holiday meals extra special with its vibrant color.
- Can be stored and enjoyed for up to a week, making meal prep a breeze.
Ingredients
This Very Incredible Basil Sauce requires just a handful of fresh ingredients:
Basil Sauce Components
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts (or walnuts, if you prefer)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
How to Make Very Incredible Basil Sauce (Step-by-Step)
Follow these easy steps to create your delicious basil sauce.
Step 1: Prep the Basil
Begin by washing your basil leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. As the warm water gently swirls around the vibrant greens, I can already smell the fresh, earthy aroma that basil is famous for.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, and minced garlic. Pulse them together until they are finely chopped, and the colors start to blend into a delightful green mixture. This is where the magic begins, as the pungent aroma of garlic mingles with the freshness of basil, creating an intoxicating scent that fills your kitchen.
Step 3: Add Olive Oil
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Watch as the sauce transforms into a glossy, velvety texture. The vibrant green color will just shimmer as it processes, and you'll appreciate how the olive oil enriches the flavor while providing a luxurious mouthfeel.
Step 4: Cheese It Up
Stop the processor and add the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Pulse a few more times until these ingredients are fully incorporated. This is when the sauce takes on an even deeper flavor, and I love the complexity that the cheese introduces. Don't forget to pause and taste-you might find yourself thinking it's already perfect!
Step 5: Season and Store
Finally, season your incredible basil sauce with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your liking. Transfer it into an airtight container, and you'll see the sauce settle, ready to brighten up your dishes. I often make a double batch because it keeps wonderfully in the fridge, and it's hard to resist drizzling it over everything.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-processing: Don't turn your basil sauce into a paste. Pulse just enough to combine the ingredients while maintaining some texture.
- Using old basil: Freshness is key! Don't use wilted or browning leaves; they can affect the overall flavor of the sauce.
- Neglecting seasoning: Make sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper before storing. The right seasoning is what elevates the flavor profile.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Use only the freshest basil for the brightest flavor.
- Be mindful of the texture; aim for a sauce that is smooth but not pureed.
- Experiment with the garlic; roasted garlic can add a different dimension to the sauce.
- Taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
Variations
- Substitute pine nuts with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely.
- Increase acidity with extra lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
- Add a handful of spinach or arugula for a different green flavor.
- Incorporate different cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a different twist.
How to Serve
- As a dressing for fresh salads.
- As a dip for crusty bread.
- As a vibrant topping for grilled chicken or fish.
- On holiday pasta dishes for a festive touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and store in an airtight container to save time during busy holiday preparations.
- Storage: Keep the basil sauce in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Reheating: If needed, gently warm the sauce before serving, but be careful not to overheat as it may affect the flavor.
- Freezing: Freeze in an ice cube tray for easy portioning, then transfer cubes to a freezer bag for longer storage.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Making this basil sauce reminded me of the importance of using the freshest ingredients. They truly make all the difference, especially during the holiday season when you want every bite to be special. I also realized that this sauce is not just for pasta; its versatility means it can elevate so many dishes, turning simple meals into something extraordinary.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 2 cups · Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~120 calories · 1g protein · 1g carbs · 13g fat
Very Incredible Basil Sauce
Equipment
- Food processor
Ingredients
Group: Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 Tbsp. pine nuts (or walnuts)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Wash the basil leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.
- In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, and minced garlic. Pulse them together until finely chopped.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until you achieve a smooth, glossy consistency.
- Add grated Parmesan and lemon juice and pulse a few more times until fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the sauce into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh for this sauce?
While you can use dried basil, the flavor will not be as vibrant and fresh as with using fresh basil. It's best to stick with fresh basil for the best results in this recipe.
How long can I store the basil sauce?
You can store the Very Incredible Basil Sauce in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it in an ice cube tray for easy portioning.
What dishes pair well with basil sauce?
This sauce pairs wonderfully with salads, grilled meats, pastas, and even as a dip for bread. Its versatility makes it a great addition to many meals!
