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–+ servings
Basil Pesto Recipe

Basil Pesto Recipe: Fresh, Easy, and Irresistibly Flavorful

Discover the magic of Basil Pesto Recipe that transforms your dishes with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Blog
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 80
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto
  • 0.5 cups Toasted Pine Nuts Walnuts or pepitas can be used as substitutes.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed juice is recommended.
  • 1 clove Garlic Clove Adjust based on desired garlic flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoons Sea Salt Kosher salt is a good alternative.
  • 0.25 teaspoons Freshly Ground Black Pepper Use freshly ground for best flavor.
  • 2 cups Fresh Basil Leaves Fresh is essential, avoid dried.
  • 0.5 cups Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Use high-quality oil for best results.
  • 0.5 cups Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Optional; use nutritional yeast for vegan.

Equipment

  • Food Processor

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Basil Pesto Recipe
  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all fresh ingredients including basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic clove, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper.
  2. Blend the Base Ingredients: Add the pine nuts, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper to a food processor. Pulse for 10-15 seconds until finely chopped.
  3. Incorporate the Basil: Add fresh basil leaves and pulse again for about 10 seconds until incorporated.
  4. Add Olive Oil for Creaminess: While blending, gradually drizzle in olive oil until the mixture reaches a creamy consistency.
  5. Mix in Parmesan Cheese: If using, add the Parmesan cheese and pulse for another 10-15 seconds until fully combined.
  6. Final Adjustments: Taste the pesto and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
  7. Store or Serve Immediately: Serve fresh or store in an airtight container with a drizzle of olive oil on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 40mgPotassium: 30mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 0.5gVitamin A: 270IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 35mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Fresh basil and quality olive oil are crucial for the best flavor. Adjust garlic according to preference.

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