Description
This classic basil pesto recipe is easy to make and packed with bold, fresh flavors. With simple ingredients like basil, garlic, olive oil, nuts, and Parmesan, this pesto comes together in just minutes and can elevate pasta, pizza, salads, and more.
Ingredients
Scale
- ½ cup toasted pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (washed and dried)
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more if needed)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Combine toasted pine nuts, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Add fresh basil leaves and pulse until evenly combined.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil. Continue pulsing until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
- Add Parmesan (if using) and pulse briefly to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Store in an airtight container, covering the surface with olive oil, and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, substitute pine nuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
- For a vegan option, omit Parmesan and use nutritional yeast.
- Pesto can be frozen in ice cube trays for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None (toasting nuts optional)
- Category: Sauces
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0g