Classic Basil Pesto
This vibrant basil pesto is a fresh and aromatic sauce ideal for pasta, sandwiches, and vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It requires minimal ingredients and delivers bold, authentic flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Fresh basil
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Pine nuts
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Garlic
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Parmesan cheese
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Olive oil
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Salt
Directions
Blend all ingredients until smooth, adjusting oil for consistency.
Servings and Timing
Serves 6.
Preparation time: 10 minutes.
Variations
Use walnuts or spinach.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze.
FAQs
Can I make it nut-free?
Yes.
Is pesto vegan?
Use dairy-free cheese.
Can I freeze pesto?
Yes.
Does basil oxidize?
Add lemon juice to reduce browning.
Can I use a blender?
Yes.
Is it good for pizza?
Absolutely.
Can I reduce garlic?
Yes.
What oil is best?
Extra virgin olive oil.
Can I add lemon?
Yes.
Does it thicken over time?
Yes.
Conclusion
Homemade basil pesto is a versatile staple that elevates countless dishes.
PrintClassic Basil Pesto
A traditional Italian basil pesto made with fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a flavorful sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Add basil leaves, garlic, and pine nuts to a food processor.
- Pulse several times until finely chopped.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until smooth.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and pulse briefly to combine.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- To prevent browning, add a thin layer of olive oil on top before storing.
- You can substitute walnuts or almonds for pine nuts.
- Pesto can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: classic basil pesto, homemade pesto, Italian pesto sauce, basil sauce
