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Sauces & Dressings Kid-friendly Quick & easy

Classic Basil Pesto

A vibrant, fragrant blend of fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan that turns any pasta, sandwich, or grilled vegetable into something special.

15 minutes
Serves 8
Side

Instructions

  1. 1

    Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly for 3 to 4 minutes until golden and fragrant; watch closely, as they burn quickly. Transfer to a plate and let cool for 5 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add the cooled pine nuts, garlic, and basil to a food processor. Pulse 8 to 10 times until coarsely chopped, scraping down the sides as needed.

  3. 3

    With the processor running, drizzle in the olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture forms a loose, spoonable paste, about 30 seconds.

  4. 4

    Add the Parmesan, salt, pepper, and lemon juice, then pulse just 2 or 3 times to combine; do not over-process, or the pesto will turn pasty and lose its bright color.

  5. 5

    Taste and adjust salt and lemon. Use immediately, or transfer to a jar and float a thin layer of olive oil on top to keep it green; refrigerate up to 5 days.

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