Ingredients
– ½ cup pine nuts Adds creaminess and nutty texture
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice Brightens the flavor
– 1 garlic clove Provides a pungent kick
– ¼ teaspoon salt Balances and enhances flavors
– Pepper to taste Adds a subtle spice
– 2 cups basil leaves Gives the fresh, aromatic base
– ¼ cup, plus more as needed extra-virgin olive oil Binds everything for a smooth texture
– ¼ cup (optional) grated Parmesan cheese Impacts savory depth
Instructions
1-In a food processor, pulse pine nuts, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until finely chopped.
2-Add basil leaves and pulse until combined.
3-With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil and pulse until blended.
4-Add Parmesan cheese if desired and pulse briefly to combine.
5-For a smoother consistency, add more olive oil as needed.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🌱 To keep pesto fresh and vibrant, cover the surface with plastic wrap or an extra drizzle of olive oil before sealing and refrigerating.
🌰 Substitute pine nuts with walnuts, almonds, or pistachios for different flavors.
🥬 Enhance flavor by adding herbs like mint or parsley, or blend in veggies like kale, zucchini, or avocado.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg