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M&M Pesto

A fresh homemade basil pesto with toasted pine nuts, Pecorino Romano, Parmigiano-Reggiano, extra-virgin olive oil, and a touch of lemon.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 garlic cloves smashed
  • 4 cups loosely packed fresh basil leaves
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
  • 1/2 cup pine nuts lightly toasted
  • 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil divided
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice plus more to taste

Method
 

  1. Add about 2 tablespoons of the olive oil to a blender, followed by the garlic, toasted pine nuts, basil, and salt. Pulse several times on low until the basil is chopped and the mixture begins to come together.
  2. With the blender running on its lowest speed, slowly drizzle in the remaining olive oil just until incorporated. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed. Do not overblend; the pesto should retain some texture.
  3. Add the Pecorino Romano and Parmigiano-Reggiano. Pulse only a few times, just until combined.
  4. Add the lemon juice and pulse once or twice. Taste and adjust with additional salt or lemon juice, if needed.

Video

Notes

Equipment Used:
Blender
Microplane
Do not over-process. Excess blending can heat the basil and olive oil and dull the pesto's fresh flavor and bright color.
A food processor may be used instead of a blender.

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