Basil Mint Pesto Recipe

Basil Mint Pesto is a flavorful take on the classic pesto with fresh mint leaves added to it. Make this versatile sauce in under 5 minutes using simple ingredients (vegetarian, gluten-free).

5 from 1 vote

Basil Mint Pesto Recipe

Basil Mint Pesto is a flavorful take on the classic pesto with fresh mint leaves added to it. Make this versatile sauce in under 5 minutes using simple ingredients.

Prep Time5

Cook Time5

Total Time10

Course: Sauce

Cuisine: Italian

Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Servings: people

Author: Neha Mathur

Ingredients

1 cup Italian basil leaves tightly packed, rinsed
½ cup mint leaves tightly packed, rinsed
6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided, plus more if required
¼ cup walnuts
3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves peeled
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

In a food processor, add basil leaves, mint leaves, 2 tablespoon olive oil, walnuts, parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
Blend until a finely chopped mixture forms.
While the food processor is running, begin drizzling the remaining 4 tablespoon of olive oil until a slightly coarse sauce is formed. Add additional olive oil if needed for desired consistency.
Scrape the sides of the jar a few times while blending.
Taste test for salt and add more if required.
Pesto is ready to use immediately, otherwise, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up a week. You may want to cover with a thin layer of olive oil or plastic wrap to prevent oxidation.

Video

Notes

You can replace walnuts with pine nuts, almonds, or pistachios.

Do not make the pesto in a blender; it will become pasty.

If your pesto is too thick, you can thin it with a little water or olive oil.

For the best flavor, use fresh basil and mint leaves. You can use frozen ones if you don’t have fresh herbs. Just be sure to thaw them completely before using them.

Nutrition