⏱ 35 min
Dips & Appetizers
Roasted Butternut Squash Hummus
Velvety roasted butternut squash hummus with caramelized garlic, tahini, warm spices, and a golden olive oil drizzle.
Humble pantry staples can create an extraordinary Vibrant Fresh Basil Mint Pesto when treated with proper heat and technique. This recipe celebrates sweet basil leaves, spearmint or garden mint leaves and pine nuts or walnuts, lightly toasted in under 5 min, providing a reliable, flavor-packed dish you will want to make again and again.
Ingredients
8 servings
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1
Pulse Herbs, Pine Nuts & Garlic
In a food processor or blender, **combine fresh basil leaves, fresh mint leaves, toasted pine nuts, and garlic cloves**. Pulse 6 to 8 times until coarsely chopped.
2
Stream Extra Virgin Olive Oil
With the processor running on low speed, **slowly stream in ½ cup extra virgin olive oil** until the herbs form a vibrant, emulsified pesto sauce.
3
Fold Parmesan Cheese & Lemon Juice
Transfer pesto to a bowl. **Fold in grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, fresh lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper**.
4
Serve or Store under Olive Oil Seal
Spoon pesto over pasta, grilled lamb, roasted vegetables, or crostini. Store remaining pesto in a jar topped with a thin layer of olive oil!
Chef Amara’s Kitchen Secrets & Pro Tips
- Chef's Secret for Bright Green Pesto: Add 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice and store with a thin layer of extra virgin olive oil on top to prevent oxidation and darkening.
- Perfect Ratio of Mint to Basil: Use a 2:1 ratio of basil to mint so the mint adds refreshing herbal brightness without overpowering the dish.
- Versatile Uses: Drizzle over grilled salmon, spoon onto caprese salads, or swirl into tomato soup!
1. Build Deep Flavor from the Fond: When browning ingredients, scrape up the caramelized golden bits (fond) from the pan bottom with a splash of liquid. That concentrated brown crust is where true savory umami lives. 2. Protect Minced Garlic from Burning: Garlic cooks and turns fragrant in just 30 to 45 seconds. Add it toward the end of sautéing onions or aromatics so it perfumes the dish without acquiring a bitter edge. 3. Chef's Kitchen Secret: Chef's Secret for Bright Green Pesto: Add 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice and store with a thin layer of extra virgin olive oil on top to prevent oxidation and darkening.
Chef’s Cooking Guide & FAQs
Troubleshooting & Quick Fixes
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Troubleshooting & Quick Fixes
- What if the Sauce for Vibrant Fresh Basil Mint Pesto Separates or Feels Greasy?: If a dairy or emulsion sauce breaks, immediately take the pan off direct heat. Vigorously whisk in a tablespoon of hot water, broth, or cream until the velvety sheen re-emulsifies.
- How to Rescue a Dish That Tastes Overly Salty?: Dilute with additional unsalted liquid (broth, cream, or water), or splash in a small touch of acid like fresh lemon juice or vinegar to soften sharp salinity.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Guidelines
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Storage, Freezing & Reheating Guidelines
Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven or covered skillet over medium-low heat until steaming hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, this dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance, kept covered in the refrigerator, and baked or cooked when ready to serve.
Q: Can I substitute common pantry ingredients? A: Yes, this recipe is forgiving. Check our substitution notes in the ingredient card for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan alternatives.
Home Cook Community
Kitchen Notes & Discussion
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