⅓cupRaw pine nutsSubstitutions: almonds, walnuts, pecans, or pepitas
2cupsFresh basil leavesPacked, about 3 ounces or 2 large bunches
¼cupParmesan cheesegrated
1TablespoonsLemon juice
3teaspoonsGarlicminced
½teaspoonsea salt
½cupextra virgin olive oil2–3 additional tablespoons to reach the desired consistency.
Instructions
Gather all your ingredients.
Add fresh basil leaves, nuts, garlic, olive oil and cheese together in a food processor. Add lemon juice. Blend until finely chopped.
Slowly pour in the additional 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil into the processor, running until well combined, and the desired consistency is reached.
Taste test. Add additional salt, pepper, or garlic. Blend again. Place pesto sauce in a jar and store up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator or freeze in ice-cube trays and store up to 3 months in a Ziploc bag.
Notes
To toast pine nuts, place nuts in a small non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Stir until lightly golden brown. Remove from heat and place on a paper plate until cool.