Description
This classic Basil Pesto is a vibrant, aromatic delight — bursting with the fresh flavors of basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese, all blended together with rich olive oil for the perfect smooth and savory sauce. It’s incredibly versatile and can elevate pasta, sandwiches, meats, or roasted vegetables in minutes.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
2 garlic cloves, peeled
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
1. Add basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic to a food processor.
2. Pulse several times until the ingredients are finely chopped.
3. With the machine running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and emulsified.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
5. Transfer to a jar or bowl and cover tightly until ready to use.
Notes
Store pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays for easy portioning.
To prevent browning, pour a thin layer of olive oil on top before storing.
Use pesto as a pasta sauce, sandwich spread, or dip for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: basil pesto, homemade pesto, classic pesto sauce, Italian sauce, fresh basil recipe