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Homemade Garlic Pesto recipe photo

Garlic Pesto

This Garlic Pesto is a vibrant and aromatic sauce that elevates any dish with fresh flavors!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Garlic Pesto:
  • 2 cups fresh Italian basil leaves tightly packed with small stems
  • 3 cloves garlic roughly chopped
  • 3 tablespoons pine nuts
  • 4 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Water as needed
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Food processor or blender
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Storage Container

Method
 

From Start to Finish:
  1. Start by washing the fresh basil leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Roughly chop the garlic cloves and set them aside.
  2. In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
  3. In your food processor, combine the fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, chopped garlic, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
  4. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Continue blending until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, you can add a little water to thin it out.
  5. Taste the garlic pesto and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Blend again to incorporate the seasoning.
  6. Transfer the garlic pesto to an airtight container. If you’re not using it immediately, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning.

Notes

  • Always use fresh basil for the best flavor.
  • Toast pine nuts carefully to enhance their flavor without burning.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste after blending for the best results.