Fresh Basil Pesto Sauce Recipe - 5 Ingredients

Pesto Sauce — a italian recipe (condiments and sauces) with 5 ingredients. Source: edamam.com.

Medium
Updated March 20, 2026

15

Total Time (min)

4

servings

275

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Fresh Basil Pesto Sauce Recipe - 5 Ingredients

Ingredients

Servings:
4
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup pine nuts (lightly toasted)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Instructions

5 steps

  1. Prepare the basil

    Wash and dry the basil leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt.

    Use a salad spinner for quick drying.
  2. Toast the pine nuts

    In a small skillet, toast the pine nuts over medium heat until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.

    Stir frequently to prevent burning.
  3. Combine ingredients

    In a food processor, combine the basil, toasted pine nuts, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.

    Pulse a few times to chop the ingredients.
  4. Add olive oil

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

    Adjust the oil amount for desired consistency.
  5. Season and store

    Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to a jar and refrigerate until needed.

    Pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

💡 Tips & Tricks

Health: Sugar-Conscious, Low Potassium, Kidney-Friendly, Keto-Friendly, Vegetarian, Pescatarian. 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

Fresh Basil Pesto Sauce Recipe - 5 Ingredients 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 5 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, walnuts or cashews can be great alternatives.

Rate This Recipe

How was this recipe?

Share This Recipe

Nutrition Facts

4 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories200kcal
Total Fat20gg
Sodium200mgmg
Total Carbohydrates2gg
Dietary Fiber1gg
Total Sugars1gg
Protein4gg

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

Recipe Details

CuisineItalian