Description
This fresh and flavorful basil pesto is made with simple ingredients and comes together in just 5 minutes! Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, salads, and more.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly option)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
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Blend the Ingredients:
- In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Pulse until finely chopped.
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Add the Olive Oil:
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until smooth and creamy.
-
Taste & Adjust:
- Add lemon juice for extra freshness (optional).
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
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Store & Serve:
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays and transfer to a freezer bag.
Notes
- Make it nut-free by swapping pine nuts for sunflower seeds.
- For a dairy-free version, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
- Want a thinner pesto? Add more olive oil until desired consistency is reached.