Easy Lemon Basil Pesto
A bright and delicious pesto infused with lemon and fresh basil, perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or salads.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons toasted nuts or seeds (e.g., pine nuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds)
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Gather all your ingredients together and measure them out for easy blending.
- Blend the base: In a food processor, add fresh basil, toasted nuts, and grated Parmesan. Process on low for about 30 seconds until coarsely chopped.
- Add lemon and oil: Add lemon zest, juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, or pulse for a chunkier texture.
- Season it right: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes and kosher salt. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Store it up: Transfer pesto to a jar, drizzle olive oil on top if storing, to prevent browning.
- Enjoy your creation: Use immediately or store. Toss with pasta, or use as a spread.
Notes
Best served fresh but can be stored for a week in the fridge or three months in the freezer. Drizzle with olive oil when serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: pesto, basil, sauce, Italian, quick recipe, vegetarian
Find it online: https://ivoryapron.com/easy-lemon-basil-pesto-recipe/