Classic Basil Pesto
Classic basil pesto is a vibrant green Italian sauce bursting with fresh basil, nutty pine nuts, and sharp Parmesan. Made in minutes, it delivers an intense herbal aroma and a silky richness that transforms pasta, sandwiches, and roasted vegetables. Toss it with hot noodles for an instant dinner or spread it over warm bread.
- ⏱ 10 min
- 📊 easy
- 🍽 Family
Ingredients
- 60 g fresh basil
- 40 g pine nuts
- 40 g parmesan
- 1 clove garlic
- 100 ml olive oil
Instructions
- Bring a small pot of water to a boil and blanch 2 cups of fresh basil leaves for 10 seconds, then immediately plunge them into ice water and pat dry.
- Add the basil, a third of a cup of pine nuts, and 2 peeled garlic cloves to a food processor.
- Pulse several times until the mixture forms a coarse paste, scraping down the sides as needed.
- With the motor running, slowly drizzle in half a cup of extra virgin olive oil until the sauce becomes smooth and emulsified.
- Add half a cup of finely grated Parmesan and pulse just to combine, since over processing can make the cheese gummy.
- Season with salt and a squeeze of lemon to taste, then toss with pasta or store with a thin layer of oil on top to keep it green.
💡 Chef's tip
Blanch the basil leaves in boiling water for a few seconds then shock them in ice water, because this locks in the bright green color and keeps the pesto from darkening.
Briefly blanching the basil leaves before blending sets their bright green color, so the pesto stays vivid instead of oxidizing to a dull khaki.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbs: 3 g
- Fat: 23 g
