Homemade Fresh Pesto Recipe
This fresh and vibrant Homemade Pesto is a simple, delicious condiment that takes just 10 minutes to make. Use on pasta, homemade pizza, grilled chicken, as a spread for sandwiches and so much more.
Prep Time10 minutes mins
Total Time10 minutes mins
Course: Condiments
Cuisine: American, Italian
Servings: 8 people
Calories: 151kcal
Author: The Carefree Kitchen
- 2 cups Basil Leaves fresh
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese
- 2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice fresh
- ½ cup Pine Nuts toasted
- 1 clove Garlic
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- 1 pinch Pepper
- ⅓ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil more for a smoother pesto
Add the fresh basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, pine nuts, garlic, salt and pepper to a blender or food processor. Blend on high until finely chopped.
With the blender or food processor on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until your pesto reaches the desired consistency. For a smoother pesto, add a bit more olive oil.
Transfer to a jar, or another airtight container, and refrigerate or use immediately. Serve on pizza, pasta, or as a dip. Enjoy!
Variations:
- You can swap the pine nuts for your choice of nuts - walnuts, pecans, cashew and pistachios all work great.
- You can make this a nut-free pesto by using hemp seeds or Pelotas.
- Sub any leafy green, cilantro, parsley, or arugula for fresh basil.
- Add roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor variation.
Calories: 151kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 123mg | Potassium: 77mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 344IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 1mg