Go Back
–+ servings
Italian Basil Pesto

Deliciously Fresh Italian Basil Pesto in Just 5 Minutes

Italian Basil Pesto is a quick, vibrant sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts, perfect for enhancing dishes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 100
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto
  • 2 cups Fresh Basil Use both stems and leaves for maximum taste.
  • ½ cup Pine Nuts Can substitute with walnuts, pistachios, almonds, or sunflower seeds.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese For a dairy-free option, consider using nutritional yeast.
  • ½ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Choose high-quality oil to enhance flavors.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Adjust based on your garlic intensity preference.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice Always opt for fresh juice for the best taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust based on dietary needs or taste preferences.

Equipment

  • food processor

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Basil Pesto
  1. Gather all ingredients for the Italian Basil Pesto.
  2. In a food processor, combine fresh basil, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until roughly chopped.
  3. Add grated Parmesan cheese and olive oil. Blend until creamy.
  4. Add fresh lemon juice and kosher salt. Pulse again to combine.
  5. Blend until desired texture is achieved.
  6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container topped with olive oil.

Nutrition

Serving: 2tablespoonsCalories: 100kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 50mgVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For an enhanced flavor, consider toasting the pine nuts before blending. Adjust garlic to taste according to preference.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!