How to Make Pesto - A Step-by-Step Guide

Pesto is a classic Italian sauce with a vibrant green color and a deliciously bold flavor. Traditionally made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, this versatile sauce is extremely easy to make and can be used in a variety of dishes.

Whether you're looking to dress up a simple pasta dish, add a burst of flavor to grilled meats or vegetables, or spread it on a sandwich, pesto is the perfect condiment to have on hand. Its rich, fragrant aroma and intense...

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups packed fresh basil leaves
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup pine nuts
  • 4 cloves garlic, or to taste
  • 2 lemon juice, or more to taste (optional)

Information

  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Total Time: 5 mins
  • Servings: 16
  • Yield: 2 cups

  • Combine basil, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, pine nuts, and garlic in the bowl of a food processor or blender. Blend to a smooth paste. Add lemon juice, if desired, and quickly pulse to combine.
  • Nutrition

    92 cal.

    • Total Fat: 9g
    • Saturated Fat: 2g
    • Cholesterol: 3mg
    • Sodium: 59mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 1g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0g
    • Total Sugars: 0g
    • Protein: 2g
    • Vitamin C: 4mg
    • Calcium: 60mg
    • Iron: 1mg
    • Potassium: 54mg