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How to Make Fresh HOMEMADE Basil Pesto | ITALIAN COOKING WITH RACHEL

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vegetariangluten-freenut-free

Originating from the Liguria region of Italy, Basil Pesto has roots in the 19th century, traditionally made with a mortar and pestle. This vibrant sauce is a staple in Italian cuisine, often served with pasta or as a spread. Today, pesto has gained global popularity, inspiring countless variations with different herbs and nuts.

Ingredients

  • fresh basil leaves
  • pine nuts
  • garlic
  • Parmesan cheese
  • extra virgin olive oil
  • lemon juice
  • salt

Instructions

  1. 1Combine fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor.
  2. 2Pulse until finely chopped, scraping down the sides as needed.
  3. 3Add Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, then pulse to combine.
  4. 4With the processor running, slowly drizzle in extra virgin olive oil until smooth.
  5. 5Season with salt to taste and pulse briefly to mix.
  6. 6Transfer to a jar and drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top to preserve.

Ingredient Alternatives

pine nuts

Healthier: walnuts

Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Walnuts are more affordable and provide a similar texture.

Parmesan cheese

Healthier: nutritional yeast

Cheaper: Grana Padano

Nutritional yeast is dairy-free and lower in calories.

Techniques

blendingemulsifying

Equipment

food processorjarspatula
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lownutsdairy

Also Known As

Pesto alla Genovese
vegetariandairy-freegluten-free

Originating from Mediterranean cuisine, roasted red pepper and tomato soup combines the sweetness of roasted peppers with the acidity of tomatoes. This comforting dish is often enjoyed as a starter or light meal, especially during cooler months. Its vibrant color and rich flavor have made it a favorite in many cultures, with variations appearing worldwide. Today, it's commonly served with crusty bread or a drizzle of olive oil, making it a versatile and beloved choice.

Ingredients

  • red bell peppers
  • tomatoes
  • onion
  • garlic
  • vegetable broth
  • olive oil
  • basil
  • oregano
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • heavy cream
  • lemon juice
  • bay leaf
  • sugar

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  2. 2Slice the red bell peppers in half and remove seeds.
  3. 3Place the peppers cut-side down on a baking sheet.
  4. 4Roast the peppers for 25-30 minutes until charred and tender.
  5. 5Remove the peppers from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
  6. 6Peel the skin off the roasted peppers and chop them coarsely.
  7. 7In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  8. 8Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  9. 9Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  10. 10Add chopped tomatoes, roasted peppers, vegetable broth, bay leaf, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  11. 11Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
  12. 12Remove the bay leaf and blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender.
  13. 13Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice, adjusting seasoning as needed.
  14. 14Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Ingredient Alternatives

heavy cream

Healthier: Greek yogurt

Cheaper: milk + cornstarch

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess

Techniques

roastingsautéingblending

Equipment

baking sheetlarge potimmersion blender
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowmilk

Also Known As

Roasted Pepper Tomato SoupRed Pepper Tomato Bisque

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs blue potatoes
  • 6 slices bacon
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1Wash the blue potatoes and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
  2. 2Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. 3While the potatoes are cooking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon.
  4. 4In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, blue cheese, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the dressing.
  5. 5Once the potatoes are cooked, drain and let them cool slightly before adding them to the dressing.
  6. 6Add the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions to the potato mixture. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to mash the potatoes.
  7. 7Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
  8. 8Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with additional blue cheese and green onions if desired.

Equipment

large potskilletlarge bowlspatulameasuring cupsmeasuring spoons

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchinis
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2Wash and dry the zucchinis, then cut them into small rounds or half-moons.
  3. 3In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  4. 4In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the chopped parsley.
  5. 5Dip each zucchini piece into the egg mixture, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  6. 6Place the coated zucchini bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  7. 7Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  8. 8Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
  9. 9Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Equipment

baking sheetparchment papermixing bowlswhisk

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