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thai basil pesto sauce

Thai Basil Meatballs with Thai Pesto Sauce Recipe


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5 from 1 review

  • Total Time: 7
  • Yield: 1 cup 1x

Description

Fresh Thai basil pesto made in minutes with lime, peanuts, and Thai chilies. A fun Thai-inspired sauce perfect to wake up noodles, rice, meatballs, or vegetables!


Ingredients

Units Scale

Instructions

Step 1: Add ingredients to food processor

Add 2 cups Thai basil leaves1/2 cup cilantro1/2 cup roasted peanuts3–5 Thai chili peppers, 3 garlic clovesjuice from 3 limes, and 1 tsp salt to a food processor.

Step 2: Pulse until combined

Pulse the mixture until everything is finely chopped and starting to combine. Scrape down the sides as needed.

Step 3: Add the oil

Slowly drizzle in 1/3 cup olive oil while pulsing until the pesto becomes smooth but still slightly textured. If more liquid is needed, add additional olive oil a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Taste and adjust

Taste and adjust as needed. Add more lime juice for brightness, more peanuts for thickness, more oil for smoothness, or more salt to bring everything together.

Step 5: Serve or store

Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze in small portions for later.

Step 6: Ways to use Thai Basil Pesto

  • Toss with noodles of choice for a quick Thai-inspired meal
  • Mix with mayo and chopped boiled eggs to make Thai basil pesto egg salad
  • Spoon over grilled chicken or shrimp
  • Drizzle on roasted vegetables
  • Serve with Thai meatballs
  • Spread on sandwiches or wraps
  • Stir into Thai basil chicken fried rice for extra flavor
  • Use as a dipping sauce for Thai fresh spring rolls

Notes

Additions and Substitutions

  • Thai basil substitute: Italian basil or holy basil
  • Peanut substitute: Cashews, almonds, pine nuts
  • Olive oil substitute: Avocado oil
  • Cilantro substitute: More Thai basil or mint
  • Thai chili substitute: Fresh serrano or jalapeño
  • Lime juice substitute: Lemon juice
  • Fresh garlic substitute: Use ½ teaspoon garlic powder instead of fresh garlic, or reduce to 1 clove for milder flavor.

Tips for the Best Thai Basil Pesto

  • Use fresh Thai basil. It makes a big difference in flavor!
  • Start with fewer Thai chilies. You can always add more.
  • Don’t over blend. A little texture makes it better.
  • Taste and adjust. Thai cooking is all about balancing flavors.
  • Store with oil on top. A thin layer helps keep it fresh.

Hey dear! If you make this recipe and love it, would you leave a quick comment and rating? Your reviews help other readers discover the recipes that build connection around the table. Thank you so much!

  • Prep Time: 5
  • Cook Time: 2
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: blender
  • Cuisine: Thai

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