Mediterranean Incredible Basil Sauce
This Mediterranean Basil Sauce is the epitome of fresh, zesty, and bold flavor. Inspired by classic pesto but infused with lemon, sun-dried tomatoes, and optional olives, this version leans into the sun-drenched tastes of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re dressing a grain bowl, drizzling over grilled lamb or salmon, or simply dipping warm flatbread, this sauce instantly elevates your dish with fragrant basil and rich olive oil.
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yields: ~1 cup (about 8 servings)
Ingredients:
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts (toasted)
2 cloves garlic
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped sun-dried tomatoes or Kalamata olives (optional)
Instructions:
Toast the Nuts:
Toast pine nuts or walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
Blend the Herbs & Flavorings:
Add basil, toasted nuts, garlic, lemon juice, zest, and red pepper flakes to a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
Drizzle in Olive Oil:
With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil until a thick but pourable sauce forms. Scrape sides as needed.
Add Final Touches:
Mix in Parmesan (if using), salt, pepper, and sun-dried tomatoes or olives. Pulse a few more times to blend evenly.
Taste & Adjust:
Adjust seasoning to your liking. Add a splash more lemon juice or olive oil if needed.
Serve or Store:
Serve immediately or store in a jar in the fridge up to 1 week. Freeze in ice cube trays for up to 3 months.
Tips:
Use fresh basil only: Avoid dried basil. If basil is wilting, revive it in cold water for a few minutes before using.
Balance the oil: Too little oil will make the sauce paste-like. Too much will dull the flavor. Add slowly until you reach your desired texture.
Toast the nuts: This enhances their flavor and cuts bitterness.
Lemon brightness: Fresh lemon juice and zest give the sauce a zippy Mediterranean twist—don’t skip them!
No food processor? A mortar and pestle or even hand-chopping can work for a rustic version.
Storage tip: Press a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing the jar to prevent browning.
Thinning it out: Add a spoonful of water or pasta water to thin for drizzling.
Variations:
Vegan Basil Sauce:
Omit Parmesan or use a vegan alternative like nutritional yeast or almond “Parmesan.”
Nut-Free Version:
Use sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely for allergies.
Cilantro-Basil Fusion:
Substitute 1/3 of the basil with cilantro for a fresh twist.
Greek-Inspired:
Add crumbled feta and swap pine nuts for almonds. Adds tang and texture.
Spicy Harissa Basil Sauce:
Stir in 1–2 teaspoons of harissa paste or smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy kick.
Creamy Yogurt Blend:
Mix 1/4 cup of the finished sauce with 1/2 cup Greek yogurt for a creamy dip.
Avocado Basil Sauce:
Blend in half a ripe avocado for extra creaminess and a mellow flavor.
Q&A:
Q: Can I freeze this sauce?
A: Yes! Pour into ice cube trays, freeze, and then store the cubes in a freezer bag. Great for quick meals.
Q: My sauce turned brown. What happened?
A: Oxidation causes basil to brown. To prevent this, add a touch of lemon juice and store with a thin layer of olive oil on top.
Q: Can I use this sauce for pasta?
A: Absolutely! Toss it with hot pasta and a splash of pasta water to create a silky, flavorful coating.
Q: What protein does this pair best with?
A: Grilled chicken, shrimp, lamb, salmon, and even falafel love this sauce.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. It keeps in the fridge for 5–7 days. The flavor deepens over time.
Nutrition (Per Tablespoon – Approximate):
Calories: 100
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0.2g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 70mg (depending on cheese and salt added)
Conclusion:
This Mediterranean Basil Sauce is a bold, herbaceous powerhouse that adds instant flavor to everything it touches. It’s rich with basil, zesty with lemon, and deeply satisfying thanks to toasted nuts and olive oil. Whether you’re crafting a Mediterranean bowl, dressing grilled veggies, marinating meats, or spooning it onto toast, this sauce adapts effortlessly. With endless variations and a prep time of just 10 minutes, it’s a fresh kitchen staple you’ll return to again and again.