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Homemade Basil Pesto Recipe


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  • Author: Lina Judi
  • Total Time: 12 minutes
  • Yield: 3/4 cup 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Homemade Basil Pesto is bright, fresh, and bursting with classic Italian flavor. Made with toasted pine nuts, fresh basil, lemon juice, and a hint of Parmesan, it’s the perfect sauce for pasta, sandwiches, vegetables, or as a flavorful dip. Simple, delicious, and made in minutes!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 1 small garlic clove

  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed

  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for desired consistency)

  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)


Instructions

  • Toast the Pine Nuts:

    • In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until golden brown and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Stir frequently and remove from heat to cool.

  • Blend the Base:

    • In a food processor, combine the toasted pine nuts, lemon juice, garlic, sea salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. Pulse until finely chopped.

  • Add the Basil:

    • Add the fresh basil leaves and pulse again until the mixture is finely blended but still has some texture.

  • Stream in the Oil:

    • With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto is smooth and well combined. Add more oil if a thinner consistency is desired.

  • Finish with Parmesan:

    • If using, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and pulse a few more times to incorporate. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

 

  • Serve or Store:

    • Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast.

  • Pesto can be frozen in ice cube trays for quick use later.

  • Great tossed with pasta, drizzled over grilled meats or vegetables, or spread on sandwiches.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 minutes
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Italian