Authentic Pesto Genovese Recipe - Fresh & Flavorful

Pesto Genovese — a italian recipe (condiments and sauces) with 7 ingredients. Source: edamam.com.

Medium
Updated March 20, 2026

15

Total Time (min)

4

servings

382

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Authentic Pesto Genovese Recipe - Fresh & Flavorful

Ingredients

Servings:
4
  • 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 (peeled)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

5 steps

  1. Prepare the Ingredients

    Gather all the ingredients, ensuring the basil leaves are fresh.

    Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
  2. Blend the Basil and Garlic

    In a food processor, combine the basil leaves and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.

    Scrape down the sides as needed.
  3. Add Pine Nuts and Cheese

    Add the toasted pine nuts and grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture. Pulse again.

    Ensure everything is well incorporated.
  4. Incorporate Olive Oil

    With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth.

    Adjust the amount of oil for desired consistency.
  5. Season the Pesto

    Add salt and black pepper to the mixture, blending briefly to combine.

    Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

💡 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 Pesto Genovese Recipe - Fresh & Flavorful is a beloved dish from Italian cuisine. With a total preparation time of about 15 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 7 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, walnuts or cashews can be used as a substitute for pine nuts.

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Nutrition Facts

4 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories200kcal
Total Fat18gg
Sodium200mgmg
Total Carbohydrates6gg
Dietary Fiber1gg
Total Sugars0gg
Protein5gg

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

Recipe Details

CuisineItalian