The Chew: Last-Minute Makeovers
Chef Mario Batali, known for his culinary expertise and world travels, contributed one of the simplest dishes he has possibly ever made on The Chew’s Ultimate Meal Makeovers episode. This show also featured recipes for Turkey Shepherd’s Pie and Miso Glazed Black Cod.
Pesto is not usually made on its own. Rather, it tends to be included as part of a recipe, usually as a sauce to complement a dish. But I guess since it can go with so many things and be prepared in so many different ways, the crew wanted to give it a moment in the spotlight.
The Chew: Mario Batali’s Pesto
The Chew’s Mario Batali shared a recipe for Mixed Herb Pesto and revealed the one secret he thinks people need to know about cooking at home. (Dmytro Mykhailov / Shutterstock.com)
Batali called Pesto something “that will not only make over any dish, it will transform it into something totally transcendent.” He said that there are countless ways to put Pesto together, and it can be a great way to clean out any leftover fresh herbs or other ingredients in your kitchen.
No matter what ingredients you use, Batali stressed that you should always taste your dish before serving it. You have the opportunity to give it the perfect finishing touch. “It is the dividing line between really great home cooking and just pretty good home cooking,” Batali said.
The Chew: Mario Batali Mixed Herb Pesto Recipe
When does Batali use pesto? “I keep it around for when I just want to put something in the oven or just boil it,” he said, noting that Pesto can be a great way to “add a little bit of a gilding of the lily.”
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup toasted Walnuts (optional; or use another type of nut)
- 1 cup Basil leaves
- 1/2 cup Tarragon leaves
- 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese
- 1 clove Garlic
- 1/2 cup Parsley leaves
- 1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Salt & Pepper
Directions
- Pulse nuts with herbs and garlic in a food processor.
- Leave the motor running as you drizzle in the olive oil.
- Mix in cheese and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Serve with your choice of roasted vegetables.
- Store leftover pesto in an airtight container, covered with a layer of oil to prevent oxidation.
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