Step By Step Instructions for Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe
Add pine nuts to a blender jar. You can toast the pine nuts slightly before adding. If you don't have pine nuts, you can use walnuts, almonds or cashews in the same quantity.
1/2 Cup Pine Nuts
Add fresh basil leaves to the blender. You can also add spinach, kale or arugula for a variation in flavor.
2 Cups Basil Leaves
Then add grated parmesan cheese. This is optional, you can skip adding cheese, or use another hard cheese instead.
1/3 Cup Parmesan Cheese
Then add garlic cloves, salt, pepper and lemon juice.
3-4 Garlic Cloves, 1/2 Teaspoon Salt, 1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper, 2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
Add in the olive oil and pulse until the ingredients are blended into a smooth paste. You can add more olive oil if the sauce is too thick.
1/4 Cup Olive Oil
Basil pesto is ready. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container and serve with your favorite dishes.