1/4 cup (62 g) Pesto with Basil contains 290 calories. Pesto with Basil is a flavorful sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It is a popular condiment that is often used to add flavor to pasta dishes, sandwiches, wraps, and salads.

In addition to being delicious, Pesto with Basil is also a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. However, it is high in fat and calories, so it should be consumed in moderation.

In this article, we will provide information about the ingredients, preparation, nutritional facts, health benefits, possible side effects, and usage of Pesto with Basil. We will also discuss some alternatives to this sauce and share some homemade pesto recipes.

What is Pesto with Basil?

Pesto with Basil is a sauce that originated in Genoa, Italy. It is traditionally made by pounding fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and salt in a mortar and then adding olive oil to make a paste. The sauce has a bright green color and a fresh, herbal, and nutty flavor. It can be used as a condiment or a flavoring agent in various dishes.

What are the Ingredients of Pesto with Basil?

Pesto with Basil is made with the following ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt

How is Pesto with Basil Made?

To make Pesto with Basil, follow these steps:

1. Wash and dry the basil leaves.
2. In a food processor or a mortar, combine the basil, pine nuts, garlic, and salt. Pulse or pound until the mixture is finely chopped.
3. Add the parmesan cheese and pulse or pound again to combine.
4. With the machine or pestle running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

What are the Nutritional Facts of Pesto with Basil?

Here is the nutritional information for 1/4 cup (62 g) of Pesto with Basil:

• calories: 290
• Total fat: 30 g
• Saturated fat: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Sodium: 560 mg
• Total carbohydrate: 3 g
• Dietary fiber: 1 g
• Sugars: 0 g
• Protein: 5 g

Health Benefits of Pesto with Basil

Pesto with Basil contains several ingredients that have health benefits. Here are some of them:

1. Basil: It is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. It also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help prevent cancer and other chronic diseases.
2. Olive oil: It is a healthy fat that may lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer. It also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
3. Pine nuts: They are rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They may also help lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

What are the Side Effects of Consuming Pesto with Basil?

Pesto with Basil is generally safe to consume in moderation. However, it may cause some side effects in certain individuals. Here are some possible side effects:

• Allergies: Some people may be allergic to basil, pine nuts, or other ingredients in Pesto with Basil. They may experience symptoms such as itching, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• High in fat and calories: Pesto with Basil is high in fat and calories, so it may contribute to weight gain and other health problems if consumed in excess.
• Garlic breath: Garlic is a strong-flavored ingredient in Pesto with Basil, and it may cause bad breath or body odor in some people.

How to Use Pesto with Basil in Cooking?

Pesto with Basil is a versatile sauce that can be used in many ways. Here are some ideas:

• Toss it with hot pasta or noodles.
• Spread it on a sandwich or a wrap.
• Use it as a dip for crackers, vegetables, or bread.
• Mix it with mayonnaise or yogurt to make a salad dressing or a sauce for grilled meats or vegetables.
• Pour it over grilled or roasted chicken, fish, or tofu.

Alternatives to Pesto with Basil

If you cannot or do not want to use Pesto with Basil, here are some alternatives that may work for you:

• Chimichurri sauce: It is a green sauce made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and oil. It has a tangy and fresh taste that goes well with grilled meats and vegetables.
• Salsa verde: It is a green sauce made with herbs, capers, anchovies, and lemon juice. It has a bright and zesty flavor that pairs well with fish and seafood.
• Hummus: It is a dip made with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. It has a creamy and nutty texture that goes well with vegetables and pita bread.

How to Store Pesto with Basil?

Pesto with Basil can be stored in the refrigerator or the freezer. Here are some tips for storage:

• Refrigerator: Transfer the Pesto with Basil to an airtight container and cover the surface with a layer of olive oil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Transfer the Pesto with Basil to an ice-cube tray and freeze it. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag or a container. Store it in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Homemade Pesto Recipes

Here are some homemade Pesto recipes that you can try:

1. Classic Pesto: Combine 2 cups fresh basil leaves, 1/3 cup pine nuts, 3 garlic cloves, 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil in a food processor or a mortar. Pulse or pound until smooth.
2. Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Follow the recipe for Classic Pesto, but add 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes to the mixture.
3. Kale Pesto: Combine 2 cups kale leaves, 1/3 cup pistachios, 3 garlic cloves, 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil in a food processor or a mortar. Pulse or pound until smooth.