Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsWoodfire RockfordBasil Pesto Recipe

Basil Pesto Recipe

Inspired by Woodfire Rockford
Time30m
Serves4

Fresh mozzarella, basil pesto, fresh tomatoes, & grana padano.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Pesto

Assembly

Method

Pesto Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Ingredients

    Wash and dry the fresh basil leaves thoroughly. Peel the garlic cloves.

  2. 2

    Blend the Pesto

    In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic cloves, Grana Padano cheese, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until coarsely chopped.

  3. 3

    Add Olive Oil

    While the food processor is running, gradually add the olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

  4. 4

    Store the Pesto

    Transfer the pesto to a clean jar or container and cover with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Assembly

  1. 5

    Prepare the Mozzarella and Tomatoes

    Slice the fresh mozzarella into thick rounds and the fresh tomatoes into slices.

  2. 6

    Layer the Ingredients

    On a serving platter, alternate layers of sliced fresh mozzarella and fresh tomatoes. Drizzle the basil pesto generously over the top.

  3. 7

    Serve

    Finish with a sprinkle of additional Grana Padano cheese if desired. Serve immediately as an appetizer or light meal.

More from Woodfire Rockford