Lighter Basil Pesto

May 09, 2023May 9, 20230 10

Lighter Basil Pesto recipe for a healthy yet delicious meal

by The Chefin Sauce

Prep

10 min

Cook

0 min

Ready In

10 min

Level

Very easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

Sugar

Fat

Basil pesto is a classic Italian sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This Lighter Basil Pesto recipe replaces some of the oil and nuts with part-skim ricotta cheese, making it a healthy yet tasty alternative. It has the same fresh and herbal taste as traditional pesto but with a smoother and lighter texture. It is perfect for those watching their calorie and fat intake but still wants to enjoy delicious meals.

Instructions

1.	In a food processor, combine the basil, garlic, pine nuts, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2.	Pulse until the mixture is well combined and the basil is finely minced.
3.	With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the vegetable broth until the pesto is at your desired consistency.

PROS

This Lighter Basil Pesto is a healthier version of traditional pesto, thanks to the use of part-skim ricotta cheese instead of oil and nuts.

Not only is it delicious, but it is also lower in calories and fat.

It can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta to sandwiches to pizza toppings.

CONS

Some may not enjoy the milder flavor and creamier texture of this pesto compared to traditional pesto.

It is important to note that even though this recipe is lighter, it is still high in sodium due to the Parmesan cheese and vegetable broth.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This Lighter Basil Pesto is a good source of protein and calcium, thanks to the use of part-skim ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese.
It is also abundant in vitamins and minerals from the fresh basil.
Basil is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, making it a great addition to any diet.

	2 cups fresh basil
	2 cloves garlic
	1 tablespoon pine nuts
	1/4 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
	1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
	2 teaspoons olive oil
	salt and ground black pepper to taste
	2 tablespoons vegetable broth , or as needed