Simple Basil Pesto is easy to make using fresh basil leaves and stays good in the fridge for several days. Use it on pastas, sandwiches, gnocchi, pizza, and more!
Can you freeze fresh basil pesto?
Yes! Pesto can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 6 months. For small portions, divide the pesto up into an ice cube tray and place in the freezer. Once the pesto cubes are frozen, transfer them to an airtight container for longer storage.
How long will fresh basil pesto stay good in the fridge?
Pesto will stay good in the fridge in an airtight container for approximately 3 to 5 days.
What can you use instead of pine nuts in pesto?
Pine nuts can be very expensive so it is common for people to seek out a substitution for pine nuts when making pesto. Sunflower seeds are one of the most inexpensive substitution options. You can also use walnuts, pecans, or almonds.
What can you make with pesto?
Pesto is delicious on pasta, gnocchi, and is commonly used as a spread on sandwiches and pizzas. It’s also great served on meats like chicken and tossed with veggies. Here are some great ideas for using your fresh basil pesto:
The pesto recipe appeared as magic! My latest crop of basil is abundant and ready to use. I had no idea how to use that much, until I read the recipe and learned i can freeze it. Hooray! Now I can make pesto for Christmas for teachers, neighbors and friends! Thanks for un-stressing my Holidays!
I’ve also successfully substituted Romano for Parmesan.
Can also be frozen in small amounts (omit the cheese, process the rest and spoon into freezer container, leaving enough head room for the grated cheese, protect top surface with plastic or parchment to prevent browning, add grated cheese (on top of the plastic/ parchment layer, cover and freeze. Keeps at least 3 months (might last longer, but it’s never taken us longer than that to eat it all up). To use, simply thaw, mix in grated cheese and enjoy.
This recipe looks great! We are eating less over these hot months so it was a treat to read this recipe.
This is the best and easiest pesto sauce!
Another great easy tasteful receipt from you!
You rock!!!!
I have used pistachios instead of pine nuts – delish- and bonus – they’re green!
I’ve used walnuts instead of pine nuts. Never thought of pistachios. They’ll be going in my next batch…. Thanks for the idea.
very easy and yummy. I used walnuts. made a good amount to freeze .
This sounds delicious. Looking forward to more recipes.