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Basil Pesto Recipe Without Pine Nuts

This quick and budget-friendly basil pesto is vibrant and full of flavor, perfect for elevating pasta, sandwiches, or grilled vegetables.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves packed
  • 2 cloves garlic peeled
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Food processor or blender
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

  1. Wash the fresh basil leaves thoroughly and pat them dry.
  2. In your food processor, add the basil leaves and garlic cloves.
  3. Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the food processor.
  4. Pulse the basil, garlic, and cheese until coarsely chopped.
  5. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil.
  6. Add the salt and black pepper to the mixture.
  7. Continue blending until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
  8. Taste your pesto and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Notes

This pesto can be drizzled over pasta, spread on sandwiches, or used as a dip for bread.