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.

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

Pesto Orzo and Vegetables

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.

Get the recipe

Grilled Pesto Shrimp Panzanella

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

Get the recipe

Pesto Ricotta Crostini Appetizers

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

Get the recipe

Cauliflower 'Rice' Recipe with Pesto

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

Get the recipe