Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe

How To Make Pesto

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 27 reviews
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 1/2 cups 1x

Description

Learn how to make pesto with this classic fresh basil pesto recipe.  It’s easy to make in the blender or food processor with just 5 main ingredients, and so fresh and delicious!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (3 ounces) lightly-packed fresh basil leaves
  • 1/2 cup (2 ounces) freshly grated Parmesan
  • 1/3 cup (1.75 ounces) toasted pine nuts
  • 3 small cloves garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt*
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a food processor or blender, pulse the basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, garlic, salt and pepper together until finely-chopped.
  2. With the food processor or blender still running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until it is completely combined. Pause the food processor or blender and scrape down the sides, then pulse again until the mixture is smooth. If you prefer a thinner pesto, add in more oil.
  3. Serve immediately. Or refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

Salt: If you are using iodized table salt, I recommend using just 1/4 teaspoon.