Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/7 checked
8
servings
2 tbsp

pine nuts

toasted

2 unit

garlic cloves

minced

1 tsp

kosher salt

to taste

1 cup

extra-virgin olive oil

plus more as needed

4 cup

fresh basil leaves

packed

0.25 cup

Parmigiano-Reggiano

freshly grated

1 tsp

fresh lemon juice

plus more to taste

Step 1
~2 min

Toast pine nuts in a preheated oven at 325F for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.

Step 2
~2 min

Let the toasted pine nuts cool to room temperature.

Step 3
~2 min

Combine toasted pine nuts, minced garlic, salt, and half of the olive oil in a food processor or blender.

Step 4
~2 min

Add half of the fresh basil leaves and pulse until finely chopped.

Step 5
~2 min

Scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 6
~2 min

Add the remaining basil, freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, and the remaining olive oil.

Step 7
~2 min

Puree until a homogenous paste forms, adding more olive oil if needed to achieve a loose, spoonable consistency.

Step 8
~2 min

Transfer the pesto to a bowl and stir in the fresh lemon juice.

Step 9
~2 min

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice as desired.

Step 10
~2 min

Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days.

Step 11
~2 min

Bring to room temperature and stir before serving.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

For a smoother pesto, blanch the basil leaves briefly before blending.

To prevent browning, add a thin layer of olive oil on top of the pesto before refrigerating.

Adjust garlic amount based on personal preference.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

5 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Can be made 1-2 days in advance

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Low
Smell Intensity
Strong
Noise Level
Moderate
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with pasta, gnocchi, or crostini.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Grilled chicken
Roasted vegetables
Fresh mozzarella

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Liguria, Italy

Cultural Significance

A staple sauce in Italian cuisine, often associated with summer and fresh ingredients.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Summer celebrations
Italian feasts

Occasion Tags

Dinner
Lunch
Appetizer
Party

Popularity Score

75/100

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