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World's Best Basil Pesto Recipe: Fresh Homemade Basil Pesto

Homemade basil pesto is a vibrant, aromatic sauce that transforms everything from pasta to sandwiches into gourmet experiences. This authentic recipe delivers that magical combination of flavors with quality ingredients like fresh basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 1/2 cup pine nuts
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare your ingredients: Wash and thoroughly dry the basil leaves, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, then let them cool completely
  2. Combine base ingredients: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, and minced garlic, pulse several times until coarsely chopped, and scrape down the sides with a spatula
  3. Add cheese and seasonings: Add both grated cheeses, sea salt, and black pepper to the food processor, pulse a few more times until well combined but still has some texture
  4. Stream in the olive oil: With the food processor running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency
  5. Final adjustments: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, stir in lemon juice at the end if using to help preserve the vibrant green color

Notes

Use fresh, dry basil leaves; toast pine nuts to enhance flavor; use quality extra virgin olive oil; process in short bursts to avoid heating mixture; store with olive oil layer on top