Description
A quick and easy recipe for classic Italian basil pesto that transforms fresh basil into a flavorful sauce perfect for pasta, sandwiches, and more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh basil, packed
- 1–2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: small squeeze of lemon
Instructions
- Get the basil ready. Rinse the basil quickly and dry it well.
- Pulse the garlic and nuts in a food processor until finely chopped.
- Add basil and cheese, pulsing until it resembles a green crumble.
- Stream in olive oil while the machine runs on low until the sauce is thick and glossy.
- Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and lemon if desired.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for best flavor and texture. Adjust garlic based on preference and consider toasting nuts for deeper flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg