Go Back
–+ servings
Basil Pesto Sauce in a white bowl with chili flakes scattered around.

Basil Pesto

Print Recipe
Basil Pesto is a classic Italian sauce, bursting with fresh basil and pine nuts, complemented by Parmesan and a hint of garlic. Ideal for enriching your favorite pasta dishes, it’s a key ingredient in recipes like Pesto Pasta, Pesto Chicken Pasta, and Pesto Shrimp Pasta.
Course Dips & Condiments
Cuisine Italian
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 137
Author Sangeetha Vel

Ingredients

  • 3 cups Basil Leaves loosely packed
  • ½ cup Olive Oil
  • ½ cup Pine Nuts toasted or sub with walnuts, almonds, or pistachios
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated
  • 3 Garlic cloves
  • ½ tsp Black Pepper ground
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Making Basil Pesto

  • Begin by thoroughly washing the basil leaves. Inspect each leaf and discard any that are wilted or discolored to ensure only the freshest, most vibrant leaves are used in your pesto.
    A bowl with basil leaves.
  • In a blender, combine the cleaned basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, ground black pepper, salt, lemon juice, and olive oil.
    Adding the pine nuts into the blender jar.
  • Secure the lid on the blender. For a smooth, creamy pesto, blend all the ingredients continuously until the mixture is silky. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the basil, nuts, cheese, and garlic initially, then gradually add the olive oil while continuing to pulse. For this recipe, though, we aim for a smooth consistency to truly capture the creamy texture of classic pesto.
    A Jar with basil pesto.

Using

  • This creamy Basil Pesto Sauce is incredibly versatile and perfect for a variety of dishes. Use it in classics like pesto pasta, chicken pesto pasta, and shrimp pesto pasta, or as a flavorful spread for sandwiches and bread. It also makes a great dressing for pesto salads. For more pairing ideas, check out our 'How to Use' section below.
    Serving smooth and creamy Basil Pesto Sauce in a white bowl.

Notes

Here are my tips to perfect your Basil Pesto the way you like it:
  • Explore Herb Variations: While traditional pesto is basil-based, experimenting with other herbs like mint, coriander, parsley, or even kale can introduce exciting new flavors. Mix and match to discover your favorite combinations.
  • Master Flavor Balance: The secret to delicious pesto lies in the proportions. Start with precise measurements of ingredients, then adjust the seasonings to taste. This ensures a well-balanced flavor that complements a variety of dishes.
  • Choose Your Texture: You can tailor the texture of your pesto to suit your preference. For a silky, creamy sauce, blend the ingredients thoroughly, as I’ve done in this recipe for a smooth finish. If you favor a rustic, chunky texture, pulse the ingredients briefly in your food processor, and then gradually add olive oil until you reach the consistency you desire.
  • Toast the Nuts: Lightly toasting the pine nuts, walnuts, or whatever nuts you choose before adding them to the pesto can enhance their flavor and add a subtle crunch.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 137kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 164mg | Potassium: 61mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 351IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 63mg | Iron: 1mg

Visit the Recipe

Want to view the full post? Simply scan the QR code with your camera and tap the link.

QR Code