Fresh. Fragrant. Brightly herbaceous.
At our Austin bistro, our Caprese sandwich quietly became one of the most beloved things on the menu. Layers of creamy Rebel Mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and crusty bread came together with one ingredient that made the whole thing sing — our house pesto. While the bistro is now closed, we're so excited for you to be able to enjoy its flavors at home with this pesto recipe and our Rebel Mozzarella, finally available online!
It’s simple, vibrant, and deeply aromatic. Just fresh basil, toasted walnuts, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of Rebel Parmesan blended together until silky but still textured.
It's not too smooth. Not too rustic. Exactly the kind of pesto that clings to bread, pasta, and vegetables alike.
This is the exact pesto recipe we made in-house for those sandwiches — and once you make it, you’ll understand why it became a favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh basil
- ½ cup + 1 tbsp walnuts
- 2 oz Rebel Parmesan
- 1⅓ cloves garlic, finely grated
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ tsp salt
- Scant ¼ tsp black pepper
Directions
1. Toast the Walnuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F with a low blower setting, if possible.
Spread the walnuts evenly on a baking tray and roast for 7–10 minutes, just until fragrant and lightly toasted. Do not over-roast.
Allow them to cool slightly before blending.
2. Blend the Pesto
Add the basil, toasted walnuts, Rebel Parmesan, finely grated garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to a blender.
Blend until smooth but still slightly textured. You’re looking for a sauce with body — not a completely smooth paste.
The texture should feel vibrant and rustic.
That's it!
How We Love to Use It
Of course, the first answer is Caprese sandwiches, layered with tomatoes and our new Rebel Mozzarella (exclusively available in our Italian Box).
But this pesto also shines in:
- Pasta dishes
- Roasted vegetables
- Grain bowls
- Drizzled over summer tomatoes
It’s the kind of sauce that makes simple food feel finished.
It’s simple. Bright. Completely satisfying.
At Rebel Cheese, we believe the best recipes are often the simplest — just a few great ingredients, thoughtfully combined. This pesto is proof that plant-based cooking can be classic, simple, and incredibly satisfying.
If you make it, tag @rebel.cheese on Instagram so we can see how you’re using it!