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creamy pesto sauce

Irresistibly Creamy Pesto Sauce You'll Want to Drench Everything

This creamy pesto sauce is a vibrant blend of fresh basil, Parmesan, and heavy cream, perfect for enhancing any dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course recipes
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Saucepan

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves a must for vibrant flavor and aroma
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts substitute with walnuts if needed
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated for best texture
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil select quality oil for best taste
  • 2 cloves garlic for a fragrant kick
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper enhances overall taste

For the Creamy Sauce

  • 1 cup heavy cream infuses the sauce with luxurious creaminess
  • 1 cup pesto homemade or store-bought
  • 1/4 cup additional Parmesan cheese for an extra sprinkle of cheesy goodness
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Pesto Preparation

  • Combine all the pesto ingredients (basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper) in a food processor. Blend for a few seconds until finely chopped and aromatic.
  • Blend while pouring in the olive oil gradually. Keep the food processor running to create a smooth, rich pesto sauce.
  • Taste the pesto and check if the flavors are harmonious. Adjust with salt or a splash of lemon juice if needed.

Creamy Sauce Preparation

  • Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just simmers.
  • Mix in the pesto to the warm cream and stir for 1-2 minutes until combined and heated through.
  • Add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper to perfection.

Serving

  • Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added crunch.

Notes

Use the freshest basil and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor. Adjust cream for desired sauce consistency.
Keyword creamy pesto sauce, easy recipes, fresh ingredients, homemade pesto, pasta sauce, quick meals