If your pesto sauce turns out too salty, don't worry; there are several ways to fix it and balance the flavors. Here are some methods to reduce the saltiness of your pesto:
Add More Ingredients: One of the simplest ways to dilute the saltiness is by adding more of the other pesto ingredients. Increase the amounts of basil, garlic, nuts (pine nuts or walnuts), and olive oil to spread out the saltiness.
Make a Larger Batch: If you have enough ingredients, you can make another batch of pesto without adding any extra salt and then combine it with the salty pesto. This will effectively reduce the overall salt concentration.
Blanch Extra Basil: Take some fresh basil leaves and blanch them briefly in boiling water. This will help remove some of the excess salt from the leaves. After blanching, quickly transfer them to ice-cold water to stop the cooking process and retain the bright green color.
Add Neutral Ingredients: You can add ingredients that have no salt, like more fresh basil leaves, extra olive oil, or even some unsalted nuts, to dilute the saltiness.
Citrus Juice or Vinegar: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice or a splash of vinegar (white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar) can help balance the flavors and reduce the perception of saltiness.
Sweeten It Up: A touch of sweetness can counteract the saltiness. Try adding a bit of honey, agave nectar, or a pinch of sugar to achieve the desired balance.
Potato or Pasta: If you're using pesto as a sauce for potatoes or pasta, you can cook some plain pasta or potatoes and mix them with the salty pesto. The pasta or potatoes will absorb some of the salt and help distribute it throughout the dish.
Cream or Milk: For creamy pesto variations, adding a little cream or milk can mellow out the saltiness.
Remember to taste the pesto as you make adjustments, and add the "fixing" ingredients gradually to avoid overcompensating. The goal is to achieve a balanced and flavorful pesto without being overly salty. With a bit of experimentation, you can salvage your pesto and turn it into a delicious sauce or spread for your favorite dishes.