Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe (Easy Homemade Pesto)
Fresh homemade basil pesto made with basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil.
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 154kcal
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 cups basil about 3 bunches
- 3 tablespoons pine nuts toasted
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese grated
- 3 pinches salt
- ½ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add half of the basil leaves, half of the olive oil, the toasted pine nuts, and the garlic cloves to a food processor or blender and pulse until the basil begins to break down.
- Add Parmesan cheese and salt.
- Blend until the mixture forms a coarse paste.
- Add the remaining basil, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper.
- Blend again until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Video
Notes
- Toasting pine nuts enhances their flavor.
- If pesto is too thick, add a little extra olive oil.
- Store pesto in an airtight container and cover the top with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning.
- Freeze pesto in an ice cube tray for easy portions.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 154kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 166mg | Potassium: 59mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 486IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 34mg | Iron: 1mg
