Name: Basil Pesto Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed; 1/3 cup pine nuts; 2 cloves garlic; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 3.8 from 72 reviews

If you have been searching for a vibrant, fresh, and utterly delicious sauce to elevate your meals, then this Basil Pesto Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic Italian favorite bursts with the fragrant aroma of fresh basil leaves, the nutty richness of pine nuts, and the sharp savoriness of Parmesan cheese, all tied together with luscious olive oil and a hint of zesty lemon juice. It’s an incredibly versatile, no-cook sauce that brings a bright burst of flavor to pastas, sandwiches, salads, and so much more, making every bite a little celebration of freshness and tradition.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Basil Pesto Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is essential, providing a unique texture, color, or flavor that blends seamlessly to create a luscious green sauce that’s both bold and comforting.

2 cups fresh basil leaves packed: The star of the show, offering vibrant green color and a sweet, aromatic flavor.
1/3 cup pine nuts: Adds a lovely creamy, buttery crunch that complements the basil perfectly.
2 cloves garlic: Brings a subtle yet unmistakable pungency that wakes up the sauce.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides rich umami depth and a slightly salty tang.
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil: The silky base that binds everything into a smooth, luscious texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spicy warmth to balance the sauce.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: A touch of acidity to brighten and lift the whole pesto.

How to Make Basil Pesto Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Pulse the Basil, Pine Nuts, and Garlic

Start by adding the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic cloves into your food processor. Pulse several times until these ingredients are finely chopped but not pureed — you want a texture that still shows some small, vivid green specks and nutty bits. This step is crucial for capturing the fresh essence of basil and distributing the crunchy nuttiness evenly throughout your pesto.

Step 2: Slowly Add Olive Oil to Create Creamy Texture

While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. This slow addition helps the sauce emulsify, turning the mixture into a creamy, luscious base. The olive oil is what gives pesto its silky body and helps carry those beautiful flavors across your palate in every bite.

Step 3: Add Cheese, Season, and Blend

Now add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to the mixture. Pulse again until everything is fully combined into a smooth, vibrant green sauce. Taste your pesto and adjust seasoning if needed — a pinch more salt or lemon juice can make all the difference. Remember that this step brings all the diverse flavors into harmony.

Step 4: Use Immediately or Store

Your homemade Basil Pesto Recipe is ready to impress! You can use it straight away for maximum freshness or transfer it into an airtight container for future meals. To keep that beautiful green color, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before refrigerating.

How to Serve Basil Pesto Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese scattered over the top is a classic choice that adds extra savory notes and a lovely melt-in-your-mouth texture. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or a few basil leaves for that fresh herbal pop. A small swirl of olive oil just before serving also adds a beautiful sheen and richness.

Side Dishes

This Basil Pesto Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple pasta dishes, especially spaghetti, linguine, or orecchiette. It’s equally fantastic as a spread for crusty bread or a topping on grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables. The bright flavors of the pesto make even the simplest sides shine with Italian charm.

Creative Ways to Present

Try swirling the pesto into creamy mashed potatoes, mixing it with ricotta for a flavorful dip, or dolloping it onto a margherita pizza before baking. You can even use it as a vibrant base for a summer salad dressing or drizzle over roasted potatoes for a fragrant finish — the possibilities are endless and always delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover pesto, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Pressing a thin layer of olive oil over the surface will help prevent oxidation and keep the vibrant green color longer. Your pesto will stay fresh and flavorful for up to a week.

Freezing

For longer storage, portion the pesto into ice cube trays and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the pesto cubes into a sealed freezer bag. This method allows you to thaw small amounts at a time, perfect for adding bursts of flavor to sauces or dishes without waste. Frozen pesto maintains its bright flavor for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Pesto is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature since heating can dull its fresh flavors. If you want to warm it gently, add it to warm pasta off the heat and toss quickly to prevent cooking out the freshness. Avoid direct heating to preserve the vivid herbaceous notes of your Basil Pesto Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pine nuts?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes and add their own unique flavors and textures, making your Basil Pesto Recipe just as delicious and a bit more budget-friendly.

Do I need a food processor to make this pesto?

While a food processor makes the job quick and easy, you can also use a blender or even a mortar and pestle for a more traditional, rustic texture. Just take your time to finely chop and blend the ingredients well.

How long does homemade pesto last in the fridge?

Stored properly with a layer of olive oil on top, pesto will keep fresh in the refrigerator for about 5 to 7 days. Beyond that, the flavor can start to fade, so it’s best to enjoy it sooner.

Is this Basil Pesto Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten-free since all ingredients are free from gluten. It’s a perfect sauce choice for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make this pesto vegan?

To make a vegan version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan hard cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy umami touch.

Final Thoughts

This Basil Pesto Recipe is one of those magical creations that feels both special and wonderfully simple. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta on a busy weeknight or spreading it on crostini for guests, pesto brings an irresistible burst of fresh, vibrant flavor every time. I hope you try making this recipe soon and enjoy the warm, comforting satisfaction that comes from homemade pesto at your table.