Easy Pesto with Basil, Pine Nuts, and Parmesan Recipe

Introduction

This easy pesto recipe is a fresh and vibrant sauce perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip. Made with simple ingredients like basil, nuts, and parmesan, it comes together quickly and adds a burst of flavor to any dish.

Ingredients

• 50g pine nuts or cashews
• Large bunch of basil, leaves picked
• 50g parmesan or vegetarian alternative
• 1 garlic clove, chopped
• 100ml olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Toast the pine nuts or cashews in a pan over a low heat until golden and fragrant, taking care not to burn them.
2. Step 2: Transfer the toasted nuts to a mini chopper along with the basil leaves, parmesan, chopped garlic, and olive oil.
3. Step 3: Blitz the ingredients briefly to create a rough sauce, or alternatively, use a large pestle and mortar to pound the mixture until combined but still textured.

Tips & Variations

• For a nuttier flavor, try using toasted walnuts instead of pine nuts or cashews.
• If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute the parmesan with nutritional yeast.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors and help preserve the green color.

Storage

Store the pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep it fresh and prevent browning, pour a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing. Reheat gently or serve cold as preferred.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze this pesto?

Yes, pesto freezes well. Portion it into ice cube trays and freeze, then transfer the cubes to a sealed bag. Use within 3 months for best flavor.

What can I use pesto for?

Pesto is versatile—use it as a pasta sauce, spread it on sandwiches, drizzle over grilled vegetables, or stir into soups for extra flavor.

Easy Pesto with Basil, Pine Nuts, and Parmesan Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 138 reviews

A quick and easy homemade pesto recipe featuring toasted nuts, fresh basil, parmesan, garlic, and olive oil, perfect for elevating pasta, sandwiches, and more with a fresh, vibrant flavor.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 150ml pesto 1x
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 50g pine nuts or cashews
• 1 large bunch of basil, leaves picked
• 50g parmesan or vegetarian alternative
• 1 garlic clove, chopped
• 100ml olive oil

Instructions

1. Toast the Nuts: Heat a dry pan over low heat and gently toast the pine nuts or cashews until golden and fragrant, taking care not to burn them. Remove from the pan and let cool.
2. Combine Ingredients: Place the toasted nuts, basil leaves, chopped garlic, and parmesan cheese into a mini chopper or a large pestle and mortar.
3. Blend the Pesto: Blitz the ingredients together until roughly combined if using a chopper, or pound with the pestle until you achieve a coarse sauce texture.
4. Add Olive Oil: Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while mixing or blending to create a smooth but textured sauce.
5. Store: Transfer the pesto into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for up to three days in the fridge.

Notes

• Use either pine nuts or cashews depending on your preference or availability.
• For a vegetarian option, substitute parmesan with a vegetarian-friendly cheese alternative.
• Adjust the garlic quantity based on your taste preference.
• Store pesto in an airtight container and cover with a thin layer of olive oil to help preserve freshness.
• Best consumed within three days for optimal flavor and freshness.

Keywords: pesto, basil sauce, quick pesto, homemade pesto, pine nuts, cashew pesto, Italian sauce, easy sauce recipe