Description
This Basil and Walnut Pesto is fresh, creamy, and full of vibrant Mediterranean flavor. Made with fragrant basil, toasted walnuts, garlic, Parmesan, and extra virgin olive oil, this easy homemade pesto comes together in just 15 minutes. Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, grilled vegetables, or as a flavorful spread.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until fragrant. Let cool.
- Add toasted walnuts and garlic to a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Add basil leaves and pulse until combined.
- Add Parmesan, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Pulse briefly.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while pulsing until smooth but slightly textured.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately or store properly.
Notes
Toast walnuts carefully to avoid burning. Use completely dry basil leaves for best texture and color. Store pesto in an airtight jar with a thin layer of olive oil on top for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Freeze in small portions for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: B
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg