10 minutes
A traditional Italian sauce made with fresh basil, nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.
Basil, washed and thoroughly dried
cups
tablespoons
Garlic Clove, peeled
each
1. Prep the Ingredients
Ensure basil leaves are washed and thoroughly dried. Measure out all remaining ingredients.
2. Combine Base Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts or walnuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse the mixture until everything is very finely minced, scraping down the sides as necessary.
3. Incorporate the Oil
While the processor is running, slowly add the olive oil in a steady stream. Continue processing until the mixture becomes smooth and emulsified.
4. Finish with Cheese
Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the food processor. Pulse a few times just to blend the cheese into the pesto, ensuring not to over-process.
Classic Basil Pesto with the option to add lemon juice for brightness.
Replace the pine nuts with walnuts for a deeper, earthier flavor. . Almonds
Stir in some lemon zest at the end for a citrusy lift that brightens the pesto. . Orange Zest
Incorporate a few chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, umami-rich twist. . Anchovies
Substitute the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier taste. . Asiago
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