Skinny Basil Pesto
Are you craving a fresh burst of flavor but trying to keep the calorie count low? Meet your new culinary best friend: Skinny Basil Pesto! This lightened-up version of the classic pesto uses fewer calories but packs in all the deliciousness. With fresh basil, nutty flavors, and a hint of garlic, this pesto can elevate any dish without weighing you down. Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip, this recipe is simple and satisfying!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves feel free to swap in spinach for a twist!
- 1/3 cup walnuts or pine nuts if you’re feeling traditional!
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese use nutritional yeast for a vegan option
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1/2 a lemon optional but oh-so-refreshing!
Instructions
- Gather Your Goodies: Grab all your ingredients and make sure your basil is rinsed and dried. We want that fresh flavor intact!
- Blend It Up: In a food processor (or blender), toss in the basil, walnuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse a few times until everything is well mixed and crumbly. So easy!
- The Olive Oil Pour: With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil. Watch it transform into a creamy dream! If it’s too thick for your liking, just add a pinch more olive oil.
- Season It: Time to add salt, pepper, and that lemon juice if you chose to include it. Give it another quick pulse to blend.
- Taste Test: This is the fun part! Give your pesto a taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed, maybe add a sprinkle more cheese or a dash more salt!
- Store It: Transfer your pesto to a jar or container, and if you're feeling extra fancy, drizzle a light layer of olive oil on top to keep it fresh!