Classic Basil Pesto
A vibrant, flavour-packed pesto made with fresh basil, parmesan, garlic, and pine nuts—this classic Italian sauce comes together in minutes and yields a full pint. Perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on bread, or freezing in small batches for future use.
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Print PinServings: 1 Pint
Calories: 2793kcal
Cost: £5.00
Equipment
- 1 Cutting Board and Cooks Knife
- 1 Blender
Ingredients
- 4 Cups Fresh Basil Leaves loosely packed, approx. 100g
- ½ Cup Pine Nuts or walnuts/almonds as a substitute
- 3 Cloves Garlic peeled
- 1 Cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated (approx. 90g)
- 1 Cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 1½ teaspoons Sea salt adjust to taste
- Black Pepper freshly ground, to tatse
- 1 teaspoon Lemon juice or zest of ½ lemon for brightness optional
Instructions
- Place the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat. Toast for 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until lightly golden. Allow to cool.
- In a food processor, combine the garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until a smooth paste forms.
- Scrape down the sides as needed.
- Add salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice or zest, pulse and then the basil.
- Pulse briefly until the basil is pureed and adjust seasoning to taste.
Storage
- Store in a sterilised jar or container.
- Keeps in the fridge for up to 1 week (cover with a layer of olive oil to prevent discolouration).
- Freezer-friendly: Portion into ice cube trays and freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Ideas
- Toss through freshly cooked pasta or gnocchi
- Drizzle over grilled vegetables, chicken, or fish
- Spread on toast, flatbreads, or sandwiches
- Stir into soups, risotto, or mayonnaise for a quick dip
Notes
Although not traditional, I only add the basil at the end of the process, as I have found this to create a pesto with a brighter colour. Pulsing too long oxidises this delicate herb.
Nutrition
Calories: 2793kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 49g | Fat: 289g | Saturated Fat: 50g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 47g | Monounsaturated Fat: 178g | Cholesterol: 68mg | Sodium: 5101mg | Potassium: 824mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 5866IU | Vitamin C: 23mg | Calcium: 1387mg | Iron: 9mg
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