Go Back
+ servings
Easiest Basil Pesto Sauce

Easiest Basil Pesto Sauce for Quick, Flavor-Packed Dishes

Discover the Easiest Basil Pesto Sauce that elevates meals with its quick preparation and vibrant flavor.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves Adds bright flavor and vibrant color
  • 2 cloves garlic Provides pungent aroma
  • cup pine nuts Contributes creaminess and nutty flavor
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Offers rich, cheesy flavor
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil Binds ingredients and enhances flavor
  • to taste teaspoon salt Enhances all flavors

Equipment

  • food processor
  • Blender

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easiest Basil Pesto Sauce
  1. Start by rinsing and patting dry the fresh basil leaves. Peel the garlic cloves and grate the Parmesan cheese.
  2. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until roughly chopped.
  3. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto forms a vibrant green paste.
  4. Add a pinch of salt and blend briefly. Adjust salt and consistency as needed.
  5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight jar with olive oil on top to prevent oxidation.

Nutrition

Serving: 100gramsCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 6gFat: 45gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 36gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Always use fresh basil for the best flavor. Lightly toasting the pine nuts enhances their nuttiness.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!