Ingredients
– 2 cups basil leaves
– ½ cup pine nuts Adds creaminess and protein
– 1 clove garlic
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil Binds and adds healthy fats
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese Provides savory flavor (optional)
Instructions
1-First, pulse the pine nuts, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and a bit of pepper in a food processor until they’re finely chopped. This step helps release those amazing flavors without overdoing it.
2-Next, add the basil leaves and pulse again to mix everything evenly. Fresh basil is key here, so use the 2 cups mentioned for the best results.
3-With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil to combine it all into a creamy texture. If you need a smoother result, add a little more oil as you go.
4-Finally, toss in the grated Parmesan cheese and pulse briefly to incorporate. For a dairy-free twist, just leave it out or swap it with something else.
5-Once done, taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then you’re ready to use it right away.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🌱 Store pesto in an airtight container with a layer of olive oil or plastic wrap on top to preserve freshness and color.
🥜 Substitute pine nuts with walnuts, almonds, pistachios, or seeds like pepitas or hemp seeds for nut-free options.
🌿 Experiment by swapping basil with herbs like mint, cilantro, or parsley, or by adding vegetables such as kale or zucchini for unique flavors.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Sauce/Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons