Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Food processor or blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine the olive oil, basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Transfer the sauce to a jar or container and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Room temperature
Serving size:
- Makes about 2 cups of sauce
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 160 per serving
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of pine nuts, you can use walnuts or almonds.
- Instead of Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
Variations:
- For a milder version, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.
- For a creamier version, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the sauce.
Tips and tricks:
- Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor.
- Toast the pine nuts before using them to enhance their flavor.
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Storage instructions:
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
- This sauce is best served at room temperature and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the sauce in a small bowl or jar with a spoon for dipping.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Pairings:
- This sauce pairs well with pasta, pizza, grilled meats, and vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more olive oil to thin it out.
- If the sauce is too thin, add more basil leaves or Parmesan cheese to thicken it up.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use fresh ingredients and store the sauce properly in the refrigerator.
Food history:
- Genovese sauce is a traditional Italian sauce from the Liguria region of Italy, which is known for its use of fresh herbs and olive oil.
Flavor profiles:
- This sauce is spicy, garlicky, and herbaceous with a nutty undertone from the pine nuts.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the sauce as a dip for bread or vegetables, or toss with pasta for a quick and easy meal.
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Region: Italian