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Fresh Basil Pesto

Basil plant growing wild by the end of summer? Great! Too much fresh basil = fresh pesto = pure food happiness. Truth.
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Servings: 2 cups
Calories: 83kcal
Author: Mountain Cravings

Ingredients

  • 3 cups fresh basil see notes
  • ½ cup pine nuts see notes
  • 4 cloves garlic smashed
  • 1/2 t. salt
  • 1/4 t. pepper
  • 1 cup olive oil
  • ½ cup parmesan grated

Instructions

  • Pulse basil, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor until roughly chopped.
  • Slowly drizzle olive oil into the mixture, pulsing until smooth.
  • Add parmesan and puree for 30 seconds.
  • Store in an airtight container immediately and keep in the fridge.

Notes

Substitute up to 1 cup fresh parsley for 1 cup fresh basil; substitute up to 1/2 cup walnuts for 1/2 cup pine nuts.
Air will turn the pesto brown; for best storage, pour a thin layer of olive oil over the surface before sealing. This keeps the bright color but isn't strictly necessary.