Purple Basil Pesto

Stunning purple basil pesto is a true crowd-pleaser! This small batch purple pesto recipe is not only budget-friendly but also bursting with flavor. By substituting pine nuts with walnuts or almonds, you can enjoy a delicious homemade sauce perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re topping pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or adding to salads, this unique purple basil pesto stands out with its vibrant color and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Purple Basil Pesto

This pesto is more than just a pretty face; it’s packed with flavor and versatility.

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and a food processor, you’ll have a gourmet sauce ready in no time.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of purple basil and nutritional yeast creates a rich and savory taste that elevates any dish.
• Versatile Usage: Use it as a dip, spread, or sauce for pasta, sandwiches, and more!
• Budget-Friendly: By swapping expensive pine nuts for walnuts or almonds, you can enjoy this delicious pesto without breaking the bank.
• Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this exciting recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool is essential for achieving the creamy texture of the pesto quickly and efficiently.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure that your ingredients are in perfect proportions for balanced flavor.
• Spatula: A spatula helps scrape down the sides of the food processor, ensuring all ingredients blend evenly.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your stunning purple basil pesto:

• 1/2 cup purple basil leaves (tightly packed (12 grams); tough stems removed; feel free to sub with regular green basil though!)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 3/4 cup whole walnuts (raw or toasted (75 grams); sub with almonds)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

How to Make Purple Basil Pesto

Step 1: Process the Walnuts

Start by processing the walnuts in a food processor until they reach a fine, crumbly texture. This will serve as the base for your pesto.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add the purple basil leaves, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, nutritional yeast, and salt into the food processor. Process until smooth for about 45-60 seconds. You may need to scrape down the sides several times since purple basil tends to be stickier than green basil.

Step 3: Adjust Texture

If you prefer a smoother texture, add one more tablespoon of olive oil. Pulse a few additional times until you’ve reached your desired consistency. Enjoy your homemade purple basil pesto!

How to Serve Purple Basil Pesto

Purple basil pesto is not just a sauce; it’s a versatile ingredient that can elevate many dishes. Here are some delightful ways to serve this vibrant and flavorful pesto.

Pasta Dishes

• Pasta Primavera: Toss your favorite pasta with purple basil pesto, seasonal vegetables, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
• Pesto Pasta Salad: Mix cooked pasta with purple basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, olives, and mozzarella for a refreshing salad.

Sandwich Spread

• Pesto Grilled Cheese: Spread purple basil pesto on bread before grilling for an herbaceous twist on the classic sandwich.
• Veggie Wraps: Use purple basil pesto as a spread in wraps filled with fresh veggies and your choice of protein.

Dips and Spreads

• Veggie Dip: Serve purple basil pesto as a dip alongside fresh vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers.
• Cracker Spread: Pair purple basil pesto with crackers or crostini for an easy appetizer.

How to Perfect Purple Basil Pesto

Creating the perfect purple basil pesto relies on quality ingredients and good technique. Here are some tips to ensure your pesto shines.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh purple basil leaves to maximize flavor and aroma.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust salt and nutritional yeast to achieve the desired taste; too little can make it bland.
• Use Quality Olive Oil: A good extra virgin olive oil enhances the richness of the pesto.
• Adjust Texture: If you prefer a smoother consistency, add more olive oil gradually until reaching your ideal texture.
• Storage Tips: Store unused pesto in an airtight container in the fridge, topped with a thin layer of olive oil to preserve freshness.
• Experiment with Nuts: While walnuts are great, don’t hesitate to try other nuts like almonds or even sunflower seeds for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Purple Basil Pesto

Pairing side dishes with your purple basil pesto can create a balanced meal. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavor beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up extra pesto.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies tossed in olive oil enhance the earthy tones of the pesto.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and purple basil make a delightful pairing with the bold flavors of the pesto.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with lemon vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of purple basil pesto.
5. Couscous Medley: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon zest complements the herbal notes of the pesto.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini noodles drizzled with purple basil pesto.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making purple basil pesto, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using stale nuts: Always ensure your walnuts or almonds are fresh. Stale nuts can ruin the flavor of your pesto. Store them in an airtight container in a cool place.
• Skipping the garlic: Garlic adds depth and flavor to your purple basil pesto. Don’t skip it; adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
• Over-processing the ingredients: While a smooth pesto is desirable, over-processing can lead to a paste-like texture. Pulse just until all ingredients are combined, and avoid over-mixing.
• Not adjusting for stickiness: Purple basil is stickier than green basil. If your mixture is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more olive oil gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Ignoring salt balance: Salt enhances flavors; however, adding too much can overpower your dish. Start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Drizzle a bit of olive oil on top before sealing to help preserve freshness.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze in ice cube trays for easy portioning.
• Once frozen, transfer cubes to a zip-top bag.
• Can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring frequently to prevent overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring often.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is purple basil pesto?

Purple basil pesto is a vibrant alternative to traditional green pesto, made using purple basil leaves and typically includes nuts, garlic, and olive oil.

Can I use regular basil instead?

Yes! You can substitute purple basil with regular green basil if needed. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How long does purple basil pesto last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts about 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

What dishes pair well with purple basil pesto?

This versatile sauce works great with pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables and bread.

Can I customize my purple basil pesto?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nuts or add ingredients like lemon juice for brightness or cheese for richness.

Final Thoughts

This small batch purple basil pesto is not only flavorful but also versatile enough to enhance many dishes. Its stunning color makes it an appealing addition to any meal. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting flavors according to your tastes!