Classic Basil Pesto is the perfect flavor to add to any dish. Learn how to make pesto sauce with just a handful of ingredients this homemade version is way better than store-bought!
The other day I visited the spa with my best friend. We visit Glen Ivy Hot Springs when we are in the mood for a spa day, palm trees, pools and Peach Bellinis make this our favorite place. We enjoyed tanning, a facial, Peach Belinis, and a tasty lunch. Spa days need to come more often in my life, and facials ohhhh they are the best ever!!
Another favorite of mine? Basil Pesto. It was only until I was 19 that I realized my adoration for pesto. It's ironic because I worked at an Italian restaurant from 15-19 but never had any pesto while I worked there. Weirdly, the green color put me off. But now the rich green color excites me. Pesto Garlic Bread, Pesto Chicken Sandwiches, Creamy Pesto Pasta, Pesto Hummus... the options are endless.
I usually buy pesto from Costco or Trader Joe's but the other week I questioned why I had never made it. I couldn't come up with a good answer so I decided I better make some. It was simple, made in 5 minutes. And being the garlic lover that I am, I loved being able to adjust the amount of garlic. This is one of those things that you have to just make yourself, it is that easy.
I used some of this pesto to make a Pesto Mac & Cheese, recipe coming next week.
★★★★★ Please let me know if you make this recipe by leaving a star rating and comment below!
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Print Classic Basil Pesto
Classic Basil Pesto is the perfect flavor to add to any dish. Made with just a handful of ingredients this #homemade version it way better than store bought!
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 Cup 1x
Ingredients
- 4 Garlic Cloves, minced
- ¼ cup pine nuts
- ½ cup parmesan cheese
- 2 cup fresh basil leaves
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
- In a food processor pulse garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and basil leaves. Pulse until fully combined, add in olive oil and pulse until you get a smooth texture. Store in fridge for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 10
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blend
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: how to make basil pesto, easy basil pesto recipe, the best pesto recipe
Kayle (The Cooking Actress) says
Yayy! I love a classic pesto-so many uses!
Liz says
Your pesto looks divine! I'm so bummed my basil crop has fizzled out...I may just have to buy some to make a supply for my freezer.
Thalia @ butter and brioche says
I have never made my own pesto before.. I have always just been lazy and bought it from the store! Definitely inspired to make a batch. Thanks!
Julianne @ Beyond Frosting says
I love pesto so much! I should really try making my own. This looks so much better than the store bought kind.