If you’re a fan of the classic Italian sauce, basil pesto, then you’re in for a treat. Costco is known for its wide variety of products, and their basil pesto is no exception. With its vibrant green color and fresh flavors, Costco basil pesto is a must-have for any pesto lover. In this article, we will share the best and easiest Costco basil pesto recipe that you can make in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 2 garlic cloves
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a food processor, add the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the food processor is running. Continue until the mixture is well combined and has a smooth consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a quick pulse to incorporate the seasoning.
4. Transfer the pesto to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.

Now that you have the recipe, let’s move on to some commonly asked questions about Costco basil pesto:

Q1. Can I use a different type of nut instead of pine nuts?
A1. Yes, you can substitute pine nuts with walnuts, almonds, or even cashews for a different flavor profile.

Q2. How long does homemade basil pesto last in the refrigerator?
A2. Homemade basil pesto can last up to one week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Q3. Can I freeze basil pesto?
A3. Absolutely! Freezing pesto helps extend its shelf life. Transfer the pesto to an ice cube tray, freeze, and then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag. It can be stored for up to six months.

Q4. What dishes can I use basil pesto in?
A4. Basil pesto is incredibly versatile. It can be used as a pasta sauce, spread on sandwiches, drizzled over roasted vegetables, tossed with cooked chicken or shrimp, or even as a pizza topping.

Q5. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil leaves?
A5. While fresh basil leaves provide the best flavor, you can use dried basil in a pinch. However, the taste won’t be as vibrant and fresh.

Q6. Is Costco basil pesto gluten-free?
A6. Costco basil pesto is gluten-free, but it’s always a good idea to double-check the label to be sure.

Q7. Can I add other ingredients to customize the flavor of the pesto?
A7. Absolutely! You can experiment with adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even different herbs like parsley or cilantro to give your pesto a unique twist.

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to head to Costco, grab their delicious basil pesto, and whip up a batch of homemade goodness in just a few minutes. Enjoy!