Pesto alla Genovese

Pesto alla Genovese showcases the vibrant flavors of fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts, blended into a creamy sauce that's perfect for a low-carb lunch. This dish can be enjoyed over zoodles or as a dressing for grilled vegetables, making it both versatile and delicious.

Pesto alla Genovese
15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Italian
350 kcal

Ingredients

  • Fresh basil leaves - 50 grams
  • Pine nuts - 30 grams
  • Garlic - 1 clove
  • Parmesan cheese, grated - 40 grams
  • Extra virgin olive oil - 100 ml
  • Salt - to taste
  • Black pepper - to taste

Steps

  1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the pine nuts until golden, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  2. In a food processor, combine the toasted pine nuts, fresh basil leaves, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
  3. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, and pulse again until mixed.
  4. With the food processor running, slowly stream in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and blend for a few more seconds to combine.
  6. Serve immediately over zoodles or as a dip for grilled vegetables.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Carbs: 5 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
  • Total Fat: 34 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 29 g
  • Water: 0.01 L

Health Benefits

  • Rich in healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, which can support heart health.
  • High in antioxidants from fresh basil, providing anti-inflammatory benefits.

Tags

ItalianLow CarbLunch