Classic Basil Pesto

Use this classic basil pesto recipe in appetizers, toppings and many of our recipes incorporating pesto. A perfect way to use up your summer garden basil.

Process garlic, basil, oil, walnuts or pine nuts, Parmesan cheese in a processor and voila. Pesto in 5 minutes. Check out a few of our recipes below that use pesto. One of our most popular recipes is Pesto and Vegetable Orzo.

Make Ahead

• Pesto lasts 5-7 days in the fridge.
• I freeze it in ziploc bags in 1/4 cup portions to use whenever I need pesto. Lasts 3-4 months in the freezer.

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5 from 3 votes

Classic Basil Pesto Recipe

Process garlic, basil, oil, walnuts or pine nuts and Parmesan cheese in a processor and voila. Classic basil pesto in 5 minutes. A perfect way to use up that summer garden basil. (makes 1/2 cup)

Prep Time5 mins

Total Time5 mins

Course: sauces and spreads

Cuisine: Italian

Author: Cheryl

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/4 cup pinenuts or walnuts
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 small cloves (or teaspoons) garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil

Instructions

• MAKE THE PESTO: Grind pine nuts (or walnuts) and garlic in a food processor for a minute. Add basil leaves and process for another minute. Slowly add in oil from the feeder tube until combined. Add Parmesan cheese and process a few more seconds. Freezes well.

Here are a few recipes to use with classic basil pesto:

Pesto Orzo and Vegetables Recipe

A taste of summer, Pesto Orzo and Vegetables is a super flavorful, healthy dish with pesto, spinach, green beans and tomatoes. Ready in 20 minutes.

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Grilled Pesto Shrimp Panzanella Recipe

Grilled Pesto Shrimp Panzanella combines fresh tomatoes, grilled bread, plump shrimp and pesto. Summer backyard fare at its best.

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Pesto, Ricotta Crostini Recipe

Guests rave about these Pesto Ricotta Crostini appetizers.  So simple to make and the flavor combination is fantastic.

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Cauliflower 'Rice' with Pesto Recipe

Super healthy and low in calories, this Cauliflower 'Rice' with Pesto is a vibrant side dish bursting with basil, spinach, garlic, lemon and Parmesan flavors.

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