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Homemade Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 86 reviews

This Homemade Fresh Basil Pesto is a vibrant, flavorful sauce made from fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Perfect as a pasta sauce, spread, or dip, it combines fresh herbs and simple ingredients to create a classic Italian condiment in just minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Herbs and Flavorings

  • 3 cups fresh basil (packed)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste)

Nuts and Cheese

  • 1/2 cup pine nuts
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese

Oils

  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: Add all of the ingredients—fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and kosher salt—to a food processor or blender.
  2. Pulse to Form Pesto: Pulse the mixture until everything is finely chopped and the texture resembles a thick paste, ensuring all flavors are well combined.
  3. Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner pesto, gradually add more olive oil by one teaspoon at a time, pulsing between additions until the desired consistency is reached. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Serve or Store: Use immediately with your favorite dishes or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To prevent browning, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the surface before sealing.

Notes

  • Use fresh basil leaves for the brightest flavor.
  • Toast pine nuts lightly before blending to enhance their nuttiness.
  • You can substitute pine nuts with walnuts or almonds if desired.
  • Pesto can be frozen in ice cube trays for longer storage.
  • Always cover pesto with olive oil before refrigerating to maintain its vibrant color.

Keywords: Basil pesto, fresh pesto, Italian sauce, homemade pesto, basil sauce, pesto recipe

Find it online: https://chefmilacook.com/homemade-fresh-basil-pesto-recipe/