Description
This Best Homemade Basil Pesto is a vibrant, flavorful sauce made in just 5 minutes! Blended with fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and olive oil, it’s the ultimate Italian condiment for pasta, sandwiches, dips, and more. A quick, no-cook recipe perfect for meal prep and pesto lovers alike.
Ingredients
-
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
-
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for variation)
-
2 cloves garlic
-
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
-
Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
-
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
-
Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Pulse again to blend.
-
Transfer to a jar or airtight container.
-
Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze in portions for longer storage.
Notes
-
For nut-free pesto, omit nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds.
-
Use walnuts for a budget-friendly variation.
-
Great stirred into pasta, spread on sandwiches, or served as a dip.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Condiments, Sauces
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
