Basil pesto is a timeless and flavorful sauce that has been cherished for centuries. Crafted with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, this homemade classic brings a vibrant kick to a wide variety of dishes.
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1/2 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Place the basil, Parmesan, garlic, lemon zest, pine nuts, and lemon juice into a blender or food processor. Blend until the ingredients begin to break down.
- For a coarser texture, pulse instead of blending continuously. Gradually add the olive oil while processing, allowing the ingredients to emulsify with the oil.
- Continue blending until the oil is fully incorporated with the basil and other ingredients. Taste and adjust with more garlic or Parmesan as desired.
