Can You Make Pesto With Purple Basil

You can absolutely make pesto with purple basil, and it’s a delicious twist on the classic green version.
 
In fact, making pesto with purple basil is not only possible, but it also delivers a slightly sweeter, more aromatic flavor that can elevate your pasta, sandwiches, and salads.
 
Many home cooks wonder if purple basil pesto will taste different or look unappealing, but the truth is that it works beautifully in nearly any recipe that calls for traditional basil.
 
The vibrant purple leaves turn into a gorgeous, deep maroon-colored sauce that adds a stunning visual pop to your dishes.
 
In this post, we’ll explore why you can make pesto with purple basil, how the flavor compares, and the best tips for getting the perfect texture and color.
 
Let’s dive right in and unlock the potential of this gorgeous herb.
 

Why You Can Make Pesto With Purple Basil

Purple basil is a member of the same Ocimum basilicum family as sweet green basil, so its culinary uses overlap significantly.
 
The main difference is that purple basil contains anthocyanins, which are the pigments responsible for its striking color.
 
These pigments don’t interfere with the pesto-making process, so you can make pesto with purple basil just as easily as you would with the green variety.
 
The flavor profile is where things get interesting, as purple basil tends to be a bit sweeter and has hints of cinnamon and anise.
 
This means your purple basil pesto will have a more complex, slightly spiced taste rather than the straightforward peppery kick of green basil.
 

1. The Flavor of Purple Basil Pesto

When you make pesto with purple basil, you’ll notice a milder and sweeter base compared to traditional options.
 
The anise and cinnamon notes are subtle, but they can complement ingredients like pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese wonderfully.
 
Some people even say that purple basil pesto is more delicate, so it pairs exceptionally well with lighter dishes like fresh mozzarella or grilled vegetables.
 
If you’re used to bold, peppery pesto, you might want to add a little extra black pepper or a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
 
Overall, the flavor difference is a pleasant surprise, not a dealbreaker, for most home cooks.
 

2. The Color Change in Purple Basil Pesto

One of the most common concerns is that making pesto with purple basil will result in an unappetizing brown or gray sauce.
 
In reality, you’ll get a beautiful, deep burgundy or magenta color that’s quite striking on the plate.
 
The anthocyanins in the leaves react to acid, so adding lemon juice or vinegar can actually brighten the pinkish-red hue.
 
However, if you prefer a more traditional look, you can mix purple basil with green basil to create a marbled effect.
 
But if you fully commit to making pesto with purple basil, you’ll end up with a sauce that’s both flavorful and visually memorable.
 

3. Texture and Oil Considerations

Purple basil leaves are slightly thinner and more delicate than their green counterparts, but they still blend into a smooth pesto without any trouble.
 
You can make pesto with purple basil using a food processor or a mortar and pestle, and both methods work perfectly.
 
The key is to use a good quality extra virgin olive oil to help emulsify the mixture and keep it creamy.
 
Since purple basil can be a bit drier, you might need to add a splash more oil or a little pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
 
Don’t over-blend, because you want a slightly textured pesto, not a watery puree.
 

How To Make Pesto With Purple Basil Step By Step

Ready to try making pesto with purple basil yourself?
 
The process is straightforward and follows the same basic steps as any other pesto recipe.
 
This is a simple, foolproof method that will have you enjoying homemade purple basil pesto in under 15 minutes.
 

1. Gather Your Fresh Ingredients

To make pesto with purple basil, you’ll need about two cups of packed purple basil leaves.
 
Add one-third cup of toasted pine nuts or walnuts, one clove of garlic, half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and salt to taste.
 
You’ll also need half a cup of extra virgin olive oil, plus a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to help preserve the color and brighten the flavor.
 
Make sure your purple basil is thoroughly washed and dried, as excess water can make the pesto watery.
 
Once your ingredients are prepped, you’re ready to blend.
 

2. Blend Everything to Perfection

Start by adding the purple basil leaves, garlic, and nuts to your food processor and pulse a few times to chop them roughly.
 
Then, while the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture starts to come together.
 
Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
 
Add the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, then pulse again until you reach a smooth but slightly chunky consistency.
 
Taste your pesto and adjust the salt, pepper, or oil as needed.
 

3. Store Your Purple Basil Pesto Properly

Once you make pesto with purple basil, you can store it in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to five days.
 
To keep the color vibrant, press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pesto before sealing the lid.
 
You can also freeze purple basil pesto in ice cube trays for later use, which is super convenient for quick weeknight meals.
 
Just pop a cube or two into warm pasta, and you’ll have a fresh-tasting sauce in minutes.
 
Remember that the flavor of purple basil is at its best when used within a few days of making it.
 

Delicious Ways To Use Purple Basil Pesto

Now that you know you can make pesto with purple basil, it’s time to think about all the tasty ways to enjoy it.
 
The slightly sweet flavor makes it incredibly versatile in both cold and hot dishes.
 
You can toss it with pasta, spread it on crusty bread, or use it as a marinade for chicken or fish.
 

1. Pasta and Grain Bowls

The most classic use for any pesto is tossing it with warm pasta, and purple basil pesto is no exception.
 
Mix it with spaghetti, fusilli, or even creamy gnocchi for a satisfying meal.
 
You can also stir a spoonful into quinoa, rice, or farro for a flavorful grain bowl.
 
The vibrant color of the pesto makes any simple dish look gourmet.
 
Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and some toasted pine nuts on top for the finishing touch.
 

2. Spreads and Dips

You can make pesto with purple basil and use it as a spread for sandwiches, wraps, or paninis.
 
It’s also delicious swirled into creamy dips like hummus or labneh.
 
Try spreading it on a slice of fresh mozzarella and tomato sandwich for a caprese-style treat with extra flavor.
 
Purple basil pesto also works great as a dipping oil for bread, just mix it with a little more olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
 
The sky’s the limit when it comes to creative uses for this vibrant sauce.
 

So, Can You Make Pesto With Purple Basil?

Yes, you can absolutely make pesto with purple basil, and it’s a fantastic way to change up your usual sauce routine.
 
You can make pesto with purple basil using the exact same ingredients and methods as traditional green basil pesto.
 
The flavor is sweeter and more aromatic, while the color is a gorgeous deep magenta that will impress your dinner guests.
 
Just remember to add a bit of lemon juice to keep the color bright and adjust the seasoning to your taste.
 
So don’t be shy next time you see purple basil at the market, grab a bunch and make yourself a batch of this stunning, delicious pesto.
 
You won’t regret adding this creative twist to your cooking repertoire.