Authentic Basil Pesto Sauce Recipe - Fresh and Flavorful

Basil Pesto Sauce — a italian recipe (condiments and sauces) with 8 ingredients. Source: edamam.com.

Medium
Updated March 20, 2026

20

Total Time (min)

6

servings

281

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Authentic Basil Pesto Sauce Recipe - Fresh and Flavorful

Ingredients

Servings:
6
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup pine nuts (lightly toasted)
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

Instructions

5 steps

  1. Prepare the Ingredients

    Gather all the ingredients and measure them out.

    Use fresh basil for the best flavor.
  2. Blend the Ingredients

    In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and pepper.

    Pulse until finely chopped.
  3. Add Olive Oil

    With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until combined.

    Scrape down the sides if necessary.
  4. Incorporate Cheese

    Add the grated Parmesan cheese and pulse until smooth.

    Adjust the consistency with more olive oil if needed.
  5. Finish with Lemon Juice

    Stir in the lemon juice for brightness and adjust seasoning if necessary.

    Taste and adjust salt and pepper.

💡 Tips & Tricks

Health: Sugar-Conscious, Kidney-Friendly, Keto-Friendly, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Mediterranean. Diet: Low-Carb

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 3 days in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With

Complete your italian meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Garlic bread
🍽️Caesar salad
🍽️Roasted vegetables

About This Dish

Authentic Basil Pesto Sauce Recipe - Fresh and Flavorful is a beloved dish from Italian cuisine. With a total preparation time of about 20 minutes, it's a quick and easy option for any day of the week.

Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its emphasis on simple, quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. Each region of Italy has its own distinct culinary traditions, passed down through generations.

This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 8 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, walnuts or cashews are great alternatives.

Rate This Recipe

How was this recipe?

Share This Recipe

Nutrition Facts

6 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories120kcal
Total Fat12gg
Sodium200mgmg
Total Carbohydrates2gg
Dietary Fiber1gg
Total Sugars0gg
Protein3gg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineItalian