Summer in a Jar - Homemade Basil Pesto
The first time I had pesto was in my early 30’s and I remember thinking it was one of the best things I’d ever eaten. We were invited to dinner by new friends and it was such a nice evening…the food was amazing, and the conversation interesting and lively! It was the start of a new friendship and many delicious meals eaten together. I learned so much from my new friend about organic food and eating in a way that was different for me. She encouraged me to try new things and taught me how to cook tofu (which I had never eaten before either). I learned about the meat industry and factory farming and as a result, became a vegetarian and didn’t eat meat for 18 years. Sometimes I think I should go back to eating in that way…we’ll see. It was a time in my life that changed me deeply for many reasons. Some friends come into your life quietly and leave just as quietly. I don’t see my friend anymore, but I will always love her for who she was (and is) and for who she encouraged me to be. Food can bind us together in many ways.
But, on a lighter note…since that first pesto dinner, it has remained one of my favorite things to make and eat! I love the smell of fresh basil and when it’s combined with garlic…it’s just incomparable. You don’t even cook pesto and it makes the whole house smell divine!
When our daughters were growing up, I made gallons of pesto every summer and froze it to have on hand for busy weeknights! It was a lifesaver when we were late getting home with no dinner plan! The girls loved it (and still do), it was healthy and so easy to toss with pasta. I served it with a big salad and bread and everyone was happy!
To make this pesto just like the one in my video below…add 4 tablespoons of nutritional yeast plus panko breadcrumbs. To make the breadcrumbs, place about 3 or 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a small skillet and add 2 cups of panko. Add salt, pepper and red pepper flakes to taste and stir until toasted and brown!
The beautiful serving bowls from Haand are perfect for serving pasta! The slightly irregular shape and handmade feel seem to compliment the simplicity of the pesto. Put the bowl in the middle of the table and let everyone serve themselves!
Haand is having a seconds sale now through August 25. They have over 5000 items in this sale and you will never find the flaw in most of the pieces. If you’re looking for a meaningful handmade gift, or you want something for yourself, now is a great time to purchase! Click this link to shop!
When serving pesto over pasta, be sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water to add to the pasta if it seems dry.
What memories do you have of fabulous meals and friends…let me know in the comments!