Classic Pesto Sauce

Fresh basil pesto is one of the simplest ways to capture the flavors of summer. Made with just a handful of wholesome ingredients, this versatile sauce adds fresh, vibrant flavor to everything from pasta to grilled vegetables and sandwiches.

Course Sauces

Cuisine Mediterranean

Keyword basil, dip

Prep Time 20

Calories 141kcal

Equipment

Food processor

Ingredients

4 cups basil leaves, washed and large stems removed
1/4 cup parmesan cheese
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup pine nuts
4 cloves garlic
freshly-cracked black pepper

Instructions

Wash fresh basil well.

Do not wash the basil too early, and do not refrigerate after washing it. If you have fresh cut basil you may want to put the stems in water; like you would for flowers to keep the leaves fresh. After washing basil, allow to air-dry in a colander. If using a salad spinner, be gentle as to not bruise the leaves.

Add the peeled garlic to a food processor and pulse until it is minced.
Add the basil, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese to the food processor and pulse until chopped.
Drizzle olive oil into the mixture while pulsing.
Pulse to desired consistency.
Add fresh cracked pepper to taste.

Sprinkle some fresh lemon juice on the surface to keep it from browning, or lay parchment on the surface until ready for use.

Notes

Tip

Classic pesto is incredibly versatile. Toss it with pasta, brush it over grilled shrimp or chicken, spread it on crusty bread or sandwiches, or drizzle it over roasted vegetables.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or substitute walnuts for pine nuts for a delicious, budget-friendly variation.

Dietitian Tip

Fresh basil and garlic are both rich in antioxidants, plant compounds that help protect your cells from oxidative stress. Enjoying herbs as part of your meals is a simple way to add both flavor and beneficial nutrients without relying on excess salt.

Nutrition