This classic basil pesto recipe is nutty and bright. We love it on pasta, pizza, and more! See the post above for my favorite pesto sauce variations.
Recipe by Jeanine Donofrio on July 10, 2019
Prep time: PT5M
Total time: PT5M
Rating
4.89 stars (573 reviews)
Keywords
Basil pesto, Pesto, Pesto recipe, Pesto sauce
Ingredients
½ cup toasted pine nuts
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 small garlic clove
¼ teaspoon sea salt
freshly ground black pepper
2 cups basil leaves
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for a smoother pesto)
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Categories
condiment
Cuisine
Italian
Steps
In a food processor, combine the pine nuts, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper and pulse until well chopped.
Add the basil and pulse until combined.
With the food processor running, drizzle in the olive oil and pulse until combined. Add the Parmesan cheese, if using, and pulse to briefly combine. For a smoother pesto, add more olive oil.
