Name: Vibrant Purple Basil Pesto for Fresh Flavor Lovers
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: ½ cup purple basil leaves (tightly packed); 1 clove garlic (minced); ¾ cup whole walnuts (raw or toasted); ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast; ½ teaspoon salt

As I walked through my garden the other day, a burst of vibrant purple caught my eye. It was the purple basil, peeking through the green with its striking hue and fragrant aroma. This herb has quickly become one of my favorites, especially when transformed into a delightful Purple Basil Pesto. This recipe is not just a quick and easy way to elevate your meals; it’s also a versatile addition that can bring life to pasta, sandwiches, or even as a dip for fresh veggies. With just a handful of ingredients and about ten minutes of your time, you’ll create a sauce that’s as nourishing as it is beautiful. Are you ready to fall in love with this colorful twist on a classic?

Why Is Purple Basil Pesto Special?

Vibrant Color: This pesto’s beautiful purple hue not only makes your dishes eye-catching but also adds a unique twist to a classic sauce.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful pesto in only 10 minutes!

Rich Flavor: The bold taste of purple basil combined with garlic and walnuts creates a savory experience that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Versatile Addition: Enjoy it tossed with pasta, as a spread for sandwiches, or drizzle it over grilled veggies for a gourmet flair.

Meal Prep Friendly: Store extras in an airtight container for up to five days, or freeze in ice cube trays for a quick flavor boost anytime.

Discover why making your own sauce can be so rewarding with this easy homemade pesto recipe.

Purple Basil Pesto Ingredients

For the Pesto
• Purple basil leaves – ½ cup tightly packed provides a vibrant color and a robust flavor profile.
• Garlic – 1 clove minced adds a delightful aromatic punch to the dish.
• Whole walnuts – ¾ cup, raw or toasted, offers a rich, nutty taste and creamy texture when blended.
• Extra virgin olive oil – ¼ cup helps to bind the pesto and adds a fruity note.
• Nutritional yeast – 2 tablespoons enhances the flavor with a cheesy essence, perfect for a vegan-friendly option.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon balances the flavors, elevating the taste of your homemade purple basil pesto.

Let’s gather these ingredients and embark on this delicious culinary journey together!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Purple Basil Pesto

Step 1: Process the Walnuts
Begin by placing the ¾ cup of whole walnuts in a food processor. Pulse them until they achieve a fine, crumbly texture, about 30 seconds. You want them to resemble small breadcrumbs rather than a paste. This step is crucial for the rich, nutty base of your Purple Basil Pesto, so keep an eye on the consistency as you process.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Next, add the ½ cup of packed purple basil leaves, 1 minced garlic clove, ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast, and ½ teaspoon of salt into the food processor. Process these ingredients together for 45-60 seconds until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides as needed to ensure an even blend.

Step 3: Adjust for Smoothness
If you prefer a creamier texture for your Purple Basil Pesto, now is the time to enhance it. Add an additional tablespoon of olive oil and pulse the processor a few more times. Continue blending until your pesto reaches your desired smoothness. This gives a luxurious finish to the vibrant mix, perfect for any dish.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Give your freshly made Purple Basil Pesto a taste. If you desire more depth, feel free to add a pinch more salt or nutritional yeast. Blend again briefly to incorporate any adjustments. This step allows you to personalize your sauce and ensures that it’s just right for your palate before serving or storing.

Step 5: Serve or Store
Once satisfied with the flavor, transfer your beautiful Purple Basil Pesto to a clean container. Use it immediately over pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip, or seal it in an airtight container for up to five days in the fridge. For long-term storage, consider freezing portions in ice cube trays. Enjoy the bright flavor anytime!

Make Ahead Options

These Purple Basil Pesto preparations are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to have a delicious and vibrant sauce ready to go! You can prepare the pesto mixture up to 3 days in advance; simply blend all ingredients (without additional oil) and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the surface before sealing to prevent browning. When you're ready to enjoy it, just give it a quick stir or pulse in the food processor if it's thickened. This way, you’ll have a homemade, flavorful sauce that’s just as delightful as the day it was made—perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or dips!

What to Serve with Purple Basil Pesto

Imagine enhancing a cozy dinner with vibrant flavors that embrace your senses and warm your heart.

Creamy Pasta: Toss your favorite pasta with purple basil pesto for a quick yet indulgent meal that’s rich and satisfying. The sauce clings beautifully to each noodle, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Grilled Veggies: Drizzle pesto over an assortment of grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. This pairing brings out the freshness of the veggies while adding a punch of flavor.
Crusty Bread: Serve with sliced crusty bread or baguette for a delightful appetizer. Spread a generous layer of purple basil pesto to enjoy a wonderfully aromatic bite.
Savory Sandwiches: Use pesto as a spread on sandwiches or wraps, elevating your lunch with a gourmet twist. Imagine crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes layered with this fragrant sauce—pure bliss!
Fresh Salads: Mix a spoonful of pesto into your salad dressing for extra flavor. It complements leafy greens and adds a creamy texture, transforming the mundane into something memorable.
Light White Wine: Pair your dish with a refreshing light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. The crisp acidity will balance the rich flavors of the pesto and make your meal even more delightful.
Fruit Platter: A refreshing fruit platter can be an unexpected and delightful contrast to the herbaceous pesto. Sweet fruits like strawberries and melon make for a balanced palate cleanser.
Chocolate Dessert: Conclude with a rich chocolate dessert, such as brownies or dark chocolate mousse. The chocolate's bittersweet notes will contrast beautifully with the vibrant freshness of the pesto, ensuring a satisfying end to your meal.

Tips for the Best Purple Basil Pesto

Fresh Basil Importance: Use fresh purple basil leaves for optimal flavor. Avoid wilted or brown leaves, as they can diminish your pesto’s vibrant taste.

Nut Variety: While walnuts add a lovely creaminess, feel free to experiment with nuts like pine nuts or almonds for different flavors in your Purple Basil Pesto.

Oil Quality: Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the richness of your pesto. Lower quality oil can leave an undesirable aftertaste.

Taste Testing: Always taste your pesto before serving. If it lacks flavor, a pinch more salt or nutritional yeast might be just what it needs!

Storage Tips: Keep your pesto in an airtight container to prevent oxidation. A thin layer of olive oil on top can help keep it fresh longer.

Smoothness Adjustment: If your pesto is too thick, don't hesitate to add additional olive oil, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Purple Basil Pesto Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste preferences, making every dish unique and delightful!

Nuts Swap: Replace walnuts with pine nuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. Pine nuts add a buttery richness, while almonds provide a lovely crunch. You might just discover a new favorite!
Dairy-Free: For a vegan version, simply stick to nutritional yeast and skip any cheese. The nutritional yeast brings a cheesy essence that perfectly complements the vibrant basil.
Garlic Level: Adjust the amount of garlic to taste; use roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor or omit it for a milder pesto. This allows you to customize the punch of flavor that suits your palate!
Herb Boost: Mix in other herbs like parsley or cilantro to create a herbaceous twist. This will add additional layers of flavor to your basil pesto, making it a refreshing and unique sauce.
Vinegar Zing: Add a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for acidity and brightness. Just a teaspoon can elevate your pesto’s flavor profile beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat. This enticing addition will take your pesto from savory to spicy in no time!
Creamy Texture: For a creamier version, mix in some avocado or vegan cream cheese. This twist not only adds richness but also a unique flavor that contrasts beautifully with the basil.

Let your imagination run wild with these variations, and don’t be afraid to experiment! With ideas like these, you can enjoy your homemade easy homemade pesto recipe in so many delicious ways!

How to Store and Freeze Purple Basil Pesto

Fridge: Store your Purple Basil Pesto in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep it sealed tightly to maintain its vibrant flavor and fresh aroma.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your pesto in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a resealable bag for easy access and portion control.

Thawing: Thaw frozen pesto overnight in the fridge for best results. This allows the flavors to re-convene and taste as fresh as the day you made it!

Reheating: If using your pesto in warm dishes, gently reheat it on low heat, stirring occasionally, to preserve its delightful flavor without cooking it.

Purple Basil Pesto Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting purple basil?
Absolutely! When choosing purple basil, look for vibrant, deep purple leaves with a fresh aroma. Avoid any leaves that are wilted or have dark spots all over, as they are past their prime. Fresh leaves ensure the best flavor for your Purple Basil Pesto.

How do I store leftover Purple Basil Pesto?
You can store your Purple Basil Pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure to seal it tightly and consider adding a thin layer of olive oil on top to further prevent oxidation and keep it fresh.

Can I freeze my Purple Basil Pesto?
Very! Freezing your pesto is a great option for long-term storage. Pour the pesto into ice cube trays and freeze until hardened, then transfer the cubes to a resealable bag. This way, you can easily grab a portion anytime, and it will last for up to 3 months.

What if my pesto turns out too thick?
If your Purple Basil Pesto is thicker than you'd like, don't worry! Simply add one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil at a time, blending until you reach your desired consistency. If it still feels too thick, repeat the process until it’s just right for your taste.

Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! While walnuts create a lovely creamy texture, feel free to swap them for other nuts like pine nuts or almonds. Each type will provide a unique flavor profile and enhance your Purple Basil Pesto in a delicious way!

Is Purple Basil Pesto safe for pets?
It’s best to keep Purple Basil Pesto away from pets, particularly dogs and cats, as it contains ingredients like garlic and nuts that can be harmful in larger quantities. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure about specific ingredients your pets might consume.