Create a vibrant and flavorful basil pesto from scratch. This versatile sauce is perfect for pasta, sandwiches, and more. Learn how to make homemade pesto with ease.
Author:purejoyalex
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:5 min
Total Time:15 min
Yield:1.5 cups1x
Category:Sauces
Method:Food Processor
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Combine basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, and minced garlic in a food processor.
Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto is smooth and well combined.
Season with salt and black pepper to your preference.
Toss with your favorite pasta or use as a spread.
Notes
For a nut-free version, substitute pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for pine nuts.
If you don’t have a food processor, you can make pesto using a mortar and pestle.
This pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for longer storage.