Start by toasting the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir them frequently for about 3-5 minutes until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
In your food processor, combine the toasted pine nuts, fresh basil, chopped garlic, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper.
With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can adjust the texture by adding more olive oil if you prefer a thinner sauce.
Stop the processor and taste your pesto. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You can also add more lemon juice for extra brightness.
Transfer your Easy Pesto Sauce to a storage container. If you’re not using it right away, drizzle a little olive oil on top to prevent browning.