Basil pesto is one of the most beloved sauces in Italian cuisine. It's not only tasty but also quite versatile - you can use it as a dipping sauce, spread it on bread, add it to pasta or salad, or use it as a marinade for meat or fish.
However, making basil pesto at home can be a challenge, especially in terms of shelf-life. Fresh basil leaves lose their flavor and aroma quickly, and the pesto can turn brown and spoil within days. This is why it's crucial to know how to preserve basil pesto for longer shelf-life.
In this post, we will share a delicious basil pesto recipe and guide you on how to preserve it for maximum flavor and freshness.
How to Make Basil Pesto
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. First, rinse the basil leaves and dry them thoroughly.
2. Place the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor or blender, and pulse until coarsely chopped.
3. Slowly add the olive oil in a steady stream while blending until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
That's it! This recipe yields about 1 cup of basil pesto. You can adjust the quantity by simply doubling or halving the ingredients.
How to Preserve Basil Pesto
Without further ado, let's dive into the preservation techniques to keep your basil pesto fresh and flavorful for days or even months.
1. Refrigeration
The easiest and most common way of preserving basil pesto is refrigeration. Simply transfer the pesto into an airtight container or jar and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure to cover the pesto with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation and discoloration.
2. Freezing
If you want to store basil pesto for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Here's how to do it:
- Spoon the pesto into small containers or ice cube trays. You can also use plastic bags or wrap.
- Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container to allow the pesto to expand as it freezes.
- Label the containers with the date and contents for easier organization.
- Freeze the pesto for up to 6 months.
- When you're ready to use it, thaw the pesto overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours. You can also heat it on low heat in a saucepan or microwave.
3. Canning
Another way to preserve basil pesto is canning. This method requires a bit more effort and equipment, but it's worth it if you want to stock up on pesto for the whole year.
Here's what you'll need:
- 1 pound fresh basil
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 2 medium garlic cloves
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt (optional)
- 4-6 half-pint mason jars with lids and bands
Instructions:
1. Prepare your equipment and sterilize the jars and lids according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Wash the basil leaves and pat them dry. Remove the stems and roughly chop the leaves.
3. In a food processor, pulse the basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and salt (if using) until finely chopped.
4. Gradually add the olive oil while pulsing until the pesto becomes smooth and spreadable.
5. Ladle the pesto into the jars, leaving about 1/2-inch of headspace.
6. Wipe the rim of each jar with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any residue.
7. Place the lids and bands on the jars and tighten them just enough to hold them in place.
8. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. Make sure that the jars are fully submerged, and there is at least 1 inch of water covering them.
9. After the processing time, remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 12 hours.
10. Check the jars for proper sealing. The lids should be concave and not move when pressed.
11. Store the jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Whether you choose to refrigerate, freeze, or can your basil pesto, the key is to use fresh ingredients and follow the proper storage guidelines. With these techniques, you can enjoy your homemade basil pesto all year round and elevate any dish with its delicious flavor and aroma!