Basil pesto is a versatile and delicious sauce that adds a burst of fresh flavor to countless dishes. This classic Italian recipe combines fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and olive oil for a rich, fragrant pesto you’ll want to use on everything from pasta to grilled vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly alternative)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (optional)
Equipment
- Food processor or blender
- Measuring cups
- Spatula
- Airtight container for storage
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients:
Rinse and pat dry the basil leaves. Peel the garlic cloves. - Blend the dry ingredients:
In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped. - Add the olive oil:
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides with a spatula as needed. - Season:
Stir in the salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. - Store or serve:
Transfer the pesto to an airtight container. If storing, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Tips
- Freeze for later: Pesto freezes well! Pour into an ice cube tray, freeze, and transfer cubes to a freezer-safe bag for easy portioning.
- Nut alternatives: If pine nuts are unavailable or too pricey, walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds work beautifully.
- Customizations: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness or substitute half the basil with spinach, arugula, or parsley for a unique twist.
Homemade basil pesto is a simple yet impressive way to elevate any dish. Whether tossed with pasta, spread on bread, or used as a dip, this flavorful sauce is a must-have recipe in your repertoire. Enjoy the fresh taste of summer all year round!
Basil Pesto Recipe
Fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor, this homemade basil pesto recipe is perfect for pasta, sandwiches, salads, and more. Made in minutes with simple ingredients!
Equipment
- Food processor or blender
- Measuring cups
- Spatula
- Airtight container (for storage)
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves packed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts for a budget-friendly alternative
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper optional
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients:
- Rinse and pat dry the basil leaves. Peel the garlic cloves.
- Blend the dry ingredients:
- In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
- Add the olive oil:
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides with a spatula as needed.
- Season:
- Stir in the salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
- Store or serve:
- Transfer the pesto to an airtight container. If storing, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
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