Is it worth toasting walnuts that are to be used in a basil pesto?!
Answers: Ingredients: basil, walnuts, garlic, parmesan, anchovies (though I'm not sure about using the anchovies yet)
I agree with the first two posters...you definitely should toast them to bring out the flavor. As for the anchovies...they tend to just blend in and impart a deeper, salty flavor...they don't generally taste fishy. Why not start with half the amount called for and see what you think? For myself, I just keep a tube of anchovy paste on hand...it's nice because you just squeeze out what you want and stick the tube back in the fridge.
toasting them enhances the flavor
if the recipe calls for them to be toasted then toast them. toasting them will prob. take less than 5 mins either in the over or in a skillet.
toasting them will just bring out a more nutty, distinct flavor in the pesto. be careful you can burn the nuts very easily.
I agree with the previous replies. Toasting brings out the oil which adds to the flavour & anchovies, or anchovy paste, will give it "depth".