Classic Pesto

This classic pesto combines basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. It’s vibrant and colorful with bright, fresh flavor. The pesto is a paste-like mixture which can be called a condiment or sauce. It can be used as a spread on sandwiches or wraps, a topping for meat or fish, or as a sauce for pasta. Or swirl it into soup for flavor or as a garnish.

How to Store Pesto

• Refrigerate pesto in an airtight container and use it within 4 to 6 days.
• For longer storage, freeze fresh homemade pesto in ice cube trays, then pop the frozen cubes into a freezer bag. Label the bag with the name and date and freeze it for up to 6 months.

Classic Pesto

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Explore the world of classic pesto! This recipe combines basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan for a versatile and delicious sauce.

• Author: Diana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Sauces and Seasonings
• Method: Blend/Process
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 3 small cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1/4 cup pine nuts or chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. In a food processor, working in batches, process the basil leaves until finely chopped.
2. Add the garlic and nuts and pulse about 6 to 8 times.
3. Add about half of the olive oil pulse until blended.
4. With the processor running, ad the remaining olive oil in a steady stream.
5. Add the Parmesan cheese and process until well blended.
6. Taste and add salt and pepper, as needed.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
• Calories: 159
• Sugar: 0.1 g
• Sodium: 59.4 mg
• Fat: 17.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 1.3 g
• Fiber: 0.6 g
• Protein: 1.9 g