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Basil Pesto Recipe
Hilary

Basil Pesto Recipe

A vibrant and easy homemade basil pesto that's bursting with fresh flavor and comes together in minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 1.5 servings
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 160
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
  • 3/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup pine nuts
  • 2 garlic cloves, (large)
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice, (juice of 2 small lemons)
  • 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Method
 

  1. Wash basil leaves thoroughly.
  2. Dry the basil leaves completely, using a salad spinner if available.
  3. Place the dried basil leaves into a food processor.
  4. Add the shredded parmesan cheese to the food processor.
  5. Add the pine nuts to the food processor.
  6. Add the large garlic cloves to the food processor.
  7. Pour in the fresh lemon juice.
  8. Add the extra virgin olive oil.
  9. Sprinkle in the salt.
  10. Add the black pepper.
  11. Process all ingredients until the mixture is smooth.
  12. Taste the pesto for seasoning.
  13. Add more salt to taste if desired and process briefly to combine.

Notes

Ensure basil is completely dry to prevent watery pesto.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor.
Taste and adjust salt before serving for perfect seasoning.
Store with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning.