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Basil Pesto
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4.43 from 7 votes

Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe – 5 Ingredients & Ready in 5 Minutes!

Learn how to make this classic fresh basil pesto with just 5 simple ingredients! Made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil, this pesto is bursting with vibrant, natural flavors. It’s quick, easy to make, and the perfect replacement for store-bought versions. It's packed with freshness you can taste in every bite!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time0 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Basil Pesto Recipe, Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe, Homemade Pesto Recipe, Pesto Recipe
Servings: 20 teaspoons
Author: Olivia Ribas

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves packed
  • ½ cup freshly grated Romano or Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup pine nuts toasted
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • salt and fresh ground black pepper

Instructions

  • Combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, and parmesan cheese in food processor. Pulse the ingredients until combined.
  • Slowly pour in the olive oil while running food processor. Keep blending until the mixture is thoroughly combined but retains some texture, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
    besto ingredients inside os a doos processor bowl
  • Add salt and pepper. Taste, and adjust if necessary. Enjoy!
    Basil Pesto in a white bowl

Notes

How to Store: You can store fresh pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Bonus tip: I like to drizzle a layer of olive oil on top of the pesto. This prevents it from oxidizing and will keep it as fresh and vibrant as possible.
Freeze Pesto: It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. You can store the whole batch in a freezer-safe container. Or, make individual servings using an ice cube tray and pop them into a freezer bag once they’re frozen.

Nutrition

Serving: 1/20 | Calories: 61kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 66mg | Potassium: 9mg