Pesto Sauce Recipe

5 from 1 vote

This Pesto Sauce Recipe is so easy to make and is perfect with spaghetti for an easy dinner. Or use it in one of our many recipes for a fun spin!

Prep Time15

Total Time15

Course: Sauce

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: homemade condiments

Servings: tablespoons

Calories: 73kcal

3 cups basil leaves packed (66 grams)
4 garlic cloves
1/3 cup pine nuts (50 grams) toasted, see instructions in the post (or toasted walnuts)
1/3 cup olive oil (78.86 ml)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese finely grated (32 grams)
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
dash black pepper

Add the basil leaves and garlic cloves to a blender or food processor to mince well, being sure to scrape down the sides regularly.
Add in the pine nuts and continue blending until the nuts are finely chopped.
While the food processor/blender is going, add the olive oil. The pesto should be relatively smooth and well-blended.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt (start with half the amount called for), and pepper. Taste and add more salt and pepper to taste.
This will be a thicker pesto recipe. If you want a thinner sauce, you can add in more basil leaves or olive oil.
Use right away by tossing with hot (drained) pasta. Or store in the refrigerator for four to six weeks to use in recipes.