Delicious Walnut Pesto Recipe for Pasta and More

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

Medium
Updated March 20, 2026

15

Total Time (min)

6

servings

209

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Delicious Walnut Pesto Recipe for Pasta and More

Ingredients

Servings:
6
  • 1 cup walnuts (lightly toasted for enhanced flavor)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves (packed tightly)
  • 2 cloves garlic (peeled)
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil (for blending)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

5 steps

  1. Toast the Walnuts

    In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts until golden brown and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

    Stir frequently to prevent burning.
  2. Blend Ingredients

    In a food processor, combine toasted walnuts, basil leaves, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.

    Pulse until coarsely chopped.
  3. 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.
  4. Season the Pesto

    Add lemon juice, salt, and black pepper, then blend briefly to combine.

    Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  5. Serve or Store

    Transfer the pesto to a jar and store in the refrigerator for up to one week or use immediately.

    Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent browning.

💡 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 Walnut Pesto Recipe for Pasta and More 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 8 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pine nuts or almonds for a different flavor.

Rate This Recipe

How was this recipe?

Share This Recipe

Nutrition Facts

6 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories120kcal
Total Fat12gg
Sodium120mgmg
Total Carbohydrates4gg
Dietary Fiber1gg
Total Sugars1gg
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