Delicious Spinach Basil Pesto Recipe for Pasta Lovers

Spinach Basil Pesto — a italian recipe (condiments and sauces) with 10 ingredients. Source: edamam.com.

Medium
Updated March 20, 2026

15

Total Time (min)

8

servings

271

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Delicious Spinach Basil Pesto Recipe for Pasta Lovers

Ingredients

Servings:
8
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (washed and dried)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves (packed)
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 1 cup pine nuts (lightly toasted)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

5 steps

  1. Prepare the Ingredients

    Gather and measure all ingredients ensuring spinach and basil are washed and dried.

    Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
  2. Toast Pine Nuts

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

    Stir frequently to prevent burning.
  3. Blend Ingredients

    In a food processor, combine spinach, basil, garlic, toasted pine nuts, and parmesan cheese.

    Pulse until coarsely chopped.
  4. Add 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 lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend again until fully combined.

    Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

💡 Tips & Tricks

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

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

Delicious Spinach Basil Pesto Recipe for Pasta Lovers 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 9 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used as substitutes.

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Nutrition Facts

8 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories150kcal
Total Fat13gg
Sodium200mgmg
Total Carbohydrates5gg
Dietary Fiber2gg
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