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Classic Basil Pesto

This Classic Basil Pesto is a fresh, vibrant Italian sauce made with basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, and extra-virgin olive oil. Ready in just minutes, it's the perfect addition to creamy pesto pasta, sandwiches, grilled chicken, vegetables, and countless pesto meals. If you've ever wondered how to make basil pesto, this simple and flavorful recipe is the ultimate easy pesto recipe for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Pesto
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves packed
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ⅓ cup pine nuts
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional

Method
 

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the basil leaves.
  2. Add basil, pine nuts, and garlic to a food processor.
  3. Pulse several times until finely chopped.
  4. Add Parmesan cheese and pulse again until combined.
  5. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil.
  6. Continue blending until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
  7. Add salt, black pepper, and lemon juice (if using).
  8. Pulse briefly to combine.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  10. Serve immediately or store for later use.

Notes

  • Use fresh basil for the best flavor and vibrant green color.
  • Toast the pine nuts lightly for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
  • For a smoother pesto, add a little extra olive oil.
  • To prevent browning during storage, pour a thin layer of olive oil over the surface.
  • Freeze pesto in ice cube trays for convenient portions.