Discover an inventive spin on traditional pesto bursting with the garden’s freshest basil and rich Parmesan flavor, perfect for transforming pasta, pizza, or veggies into a gourmet experience. This Pesto Nut Free Recipe delivers vibrant taste without nuts while inspiring creativity as seen in Fresh Basil Recipes. Enjoy every bite.

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I have been experimenting with different pesto recipes for a while now and came up with this quick and easy nut free pesto that I really love. I use 2 cups of fresh basil leaves that are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, along with 2 garlic cloves which help boost flavor and support my immune system.

I mix in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for protein and calcium, and 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil which provides heart healthy fats. This recipe is a basic pesto recipe that focuses on simple, fresh ingredients while still delivering a great taste.

The nutritional value in this herb recipe is impressive and I find it works perfectly on pasta, pizza, poultry and veggies. Its fast to prepare and is ideal when you need a quick nut free pesto option that carries all the flavor without the nuts.

I enjoy making this everyday for a healthy meal upgrade.

Why I Like this Recipe

I honestly love how quick and easy it is to whip up this nut free pesto – it doesn’t take much time and I can always count on it when I need a fast, tasty meal.

I really dig the flavor; the fresh basil combined with garlic and Parmesan just hits the spot every time, even if it’s a bit chunky and not totally blended into a smooth paste.

I also like how versatile it is – I can toss it with pasta, spread it on pizza, or even use it as a dip for my veggies, which makes it perfect for whatever I’m in the mood for.

Lastly, I appreciate that I have total control over the taste; if I feel it needs a bit more garlic or cheese, I can just adjust it to suit my cravings.

Ingredients

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This nut free pesto offers vibrant flavors and easy preparation for any meal.
Fresh basil leaves are rich in vitamin K and antioxidants.
They bring a light, herbaceous, and kinda sweet flavor.
Garlic adds robust flavor and potential immune benefits.
It offers vitamin C and slight digestive fiber.
Grated Parmesan cheese provides protein, calcium, and savory umami.
It makes the sauce creamier with a salty kick.
Extra virgin olive oil is heart healthy with good fats.
It adds a smooth richness and balances other bold flavors.
Every ingredient works together to create a balanced, delicious sauce.

Ingredient Quantities

2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed

2 garlic cloves, roughly chopped

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

How to Make this

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1. First, gather up all your ingredients so you don’t have to run back and forth to the kitchen.

2. Toss the basil leaves, garlic cloves, and grated Parmesan cheese into a food processor.

3. Pulse the mixture a few times until it has a rough consistency; you want it a bit chunky, not a total puree.

4. Slowly drizzle the extra virgin olive oil into the mixture while the processor is running so everything combines nicely.

5. Stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula if needed to make sure every bit of basil and garlic gets blended in.

6. Taste the pesto and if you feel like it needs a bit more garlic or cheese, now is the time to add it.

7. Once you’re happy with the flavor and texture, give it one more quick pulse so everything is well mixed.

8. Serve your nut free pesto over pasta, on pizza, or as a dip for veggies – enjoy it while fresh!

Equipment Needed

1. Food processor – for blending the basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil together
2. Measuring cups – to accurately measure out the basil and olive oil
3. Knife – for roughly chopping the garlic cloves
4. Cutting board – to safely chop the garlic and any other ingredients
5. Spatula – to scrape down the sides of the food processor and mix everything evenly
6. Grater – if you need to grate your own Parmesan cheese

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to make this nut free pesto?

A: It really only takes about 10 minutes from start to finish, so you can whip it up even on busy days.

Q: Can I substitute Parmesan cheese with something else?

A: Yes, you can try using Pecorino Romano if you prefer, but it might give the pesto a slightly different flavor.

Q: Do I need to toast or do anything special with the basil?

A: Nah, you just use the fresh basil leaves as they are. No need to toast anything which keeps it super easy.

Q: How should I store any leftover pesto?

A: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Drizzling a little olive oil on top can help stop it from browning.

Q: Is this recipe really nut free?

A: Yep, it has no nuts at all, making it a safe option if you or anyone you know has a nut allergy.

Quick And Easy Nut Free Pesto Recipe Substitutions and Variations

If you cant find fresh basil, you might use spinach mixed with a bit of mint to keep that fresh flavor.
If the garlic is too strong for you, try roasted garlic instead its a little milder and sweeter.
If Parmesan cheese isnt available or you need a dairy free option, nutritional yeast can work pretty well for that cheesy feel.
If extra virgin olive oil isnt your thing, you can swap it with avocado oil, wich has a similar consistency and a mild taste.

Pro Tips

1. Try lightly roasting the garlic in a pan before you toss it in the food processor to add a richer, smoother flavor to your pesto.
2. Make sure you use a really good quality olive oil since it plays a big part in the taste; a cheap one can really bring the flavor down.
3. Don’t overdo it with the blending. Pulse the mixture just a few times so that you retain a bit of texture; turning it into a full puree can make it a bit boring.
4. Always taste your pesto before serving and feel free to add a pinch of salt or a bit more cheese if needed to suit your taste.