Go Back
–+ servings
Basil Pesto

Fresh Basil Pesto in 5 Minutes: Taste the Summer Boost

This quick and easy Basil Pesto recipe captures vibrant summer flavors in under 5 minutes, perfect for any meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 100
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto
  • 2 cups Fresh Basil Leaves Avoid dried basil for freshness.
  • 1 clove Garlic Can substitute with roasted garlic for milder flavor.
  • 1/3 cup Pine Nuts Can replace with walnuts or pecans.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Modify according to spice preference.
  • 1/2 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Use high-quality oil for best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Use nutritional yeast for vegan option.

Equipment

  • Food Processor

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Basil Pesto
  1. Wash and dry the basil leaves thoroughly in cold water.
  2. Optional: Bruise the leaves using a mortar and pestle to release oils.
  3. In a food processor, combine basil, garlic, pine nuts, salt, and pepper. Pulse until roughly chopped.
  4. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until smooth and slightly textured.
  5. Add Parmesan cheese and pulse until combined for a creamy texture.
  6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container with plastic wrap on the surface.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 100kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 50mgVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure basil leaves are dry for a creamy pesto. Adjust garlic amount to taste. Using a food processor saves time, but hand-chopping can give a rustic texture.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!