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Tomato Basil Pesto Sauce Recipe

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4.5 from 36 reviews

This vibrant Tomato Basil Pesto Sauce combines fresh basil, cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, and garlic to create a flavorful and versatile sauce. Blended with olive oil and seasoned with salt, this pesto is perfect for tossing with pasta or serving as a tangy dip.

Ingredients

Tomato Basil Pesto Sauce Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • ¼ cup pine nuts
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, and garlic to begin building the base flavors of the pesto.
  2. Pulse Mixture: Pulse the ingredients until they break down into a coarse mixture, ensuring that all components are evenly chopped and blended together.
  3. Incorporate Olive Oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to help create a smooth, cohesive sauce while controlling the consistency to your liking.
  4. Season: Add salt to taste to enhance and balance the flavors of the sauce.
  5. Serve: Toss the sauce with your favorite pasta or serve it as a tangy dip. For a creamier texture, consider mixing in nutritional yeast or a splash of cashew cream.

Notes

  • For a nut-free version, substitute pine nuts with sunflower seeds or omit entirely.
  • Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and smooth texture.
  • To store, keep the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For a richer taste, add Parmesan cheese or a vegan alternative before serving.
  • If the pesto is too thick, thin it out with a little water or more olive oil.