Basil Pesto Recipe

This basil pesto recipe is fresh, vibrant, and incredibly easy to make at home in just a few minutes. Made with fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, this classic sauce adds rich flavor to pasta, sandwiches, pizza, roasted vegetables, and more. Whether you are looking for the best basil pesto recipe, a vegan basil pesto recipe, or a basil pesto recipe without pine nuts, this versatile homemade pesto can easily be customized to suit your taste. Explore more delicious recipes like Basil Pesto Recipe on our website.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh basil leaves
½ cup toasted pine nuts
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 small garlic clove
¼ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Add the pine nuts, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper to a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.

Add the fresh basil leaves and pulse again until combined.

While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto becomes smooth and creamy.

Add the Parmesan cheese and pulse briefly to combine. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a little more olive oil.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Preparation Details

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cup

Calories: 180 per serving
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 18g

For a vegan basil pesto recipe, simply leave out the Parmesan cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast. You can also make a walnut basil pesto recipe or basil pesto recipe with cashews by swapping the pine nuts with your preferred nuts. This sauce pairs perfectly with pasta, grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, sandwiches, and homemade pizza.