Description
A classic, vibrant Basil Pesto recipe featuring toasted pine nuts, fresh basil, garlic, lemon juice, and rich Parmesan cheese blended into a creamy sauce with olive oil. Perfect as a flavorful topping for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pesto:
- ½ cup toasted pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for a smoother pesto)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the base ingredients: In a food processor, combine the toasted pine nuts, fresh lemon juice, garlic clove, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Pulse the mixture until the ingredients are well chopped and evenly combined, creating a flavorful base for the pesto.
- Add basil leaves: Add the fresh basil leaves to the food processor. Pulse several times until the basil is finely chopped and incorporated with the nut and lemon mixture, forming the green, fragrant foundation of the pesto sauce.
- Incorporate olive oil and cheese: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil to blend everything smoothly and evenly. If using Parmesan cheese, add it now and pulse briefly just to combine. For a creamier consistency, continue adding more olive oil to reach desired smoothness.
Notes
- To toast pine nuts, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with nutritional yeast.
- The pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; add a thin layer of olive oil on top to preserve freshness.
- Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor; avoid wilted or brown leaves.
- Adjust salt and lemon juice to taste depending on personal preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (toasting pine nuts)
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: basil pesto, Italian sauce, pine nuts, garlic pesto, homemade pesto, fresh basil sauce
