Perfect Pesto
Transform your meals with the vibrant flavors of this Perfect Pesto recipe, a quick, no-cook sauce that takes just 10 minutes to prepare. Made with fragrant fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, and rich Parmesan cheese, this classic pesto is blended to creamy perfection with extra-virgin olive oil and a touch of garlic. A hint of optional lemon juice adds a bright, zesty note, making it ideal for pasta dishes, gourmet sandwiches, or as a dip for crusty bread and fresh veggies. Rich in flavor yet effortlessly simple, this versatile pesto recipe is your go-to for elevating everyday dishes with a taste of fresh Italian-inspired magic. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this homemade basil pesto is a must-try for food enthusiasts and cooks alike.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups (packed) Fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves Garlic cloves
- 0.25 cup Pine nuts
- 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup Extra-virgin olive oil
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt
- 0.125 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
Start by washing the fresh basil leaves thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re golden and aromatic. Remove from the heat and let them cool.
Peel the garlic cloves and roughly chop them to make blending easier.
In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Pulse the ingredients a few times until they are coarsely chopped and combined.
With the processor running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Blend until the mixture becomes a smooth and cohesive sauce.
Season the pesto with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Transfer the pesto to a clean jar or container. If not using immediately, cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation, and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Use the pesto as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for veggies and bread!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1460 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 154.4 g | 198% | |
| Saturated Fat | 26.1 g | 131% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 11.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 40 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 1274 mg | 55% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 8.2 g | 3% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.3 g | ||
| Protein | 22.4 g | 45% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 508 mg | 39% | |
| Iron | 3.3 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 362 mg | 8% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
