This basil walnut pesto recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their home cooking with vibrant, fresh flavors. Forget the pre-made stuff; this homemade version is incredibly easy to make and tastes infinitely better. Ready in just minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to add a gourmet touch to any meal. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, spreading it on a sandwich, or using it as a dip, this basil pesto is versatile and delicious. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to achieve such a rich and satisfying flavor profile with just a few quality ingredients.

⏱ Time: 10 min
👥 Servings: about 1.5 cups
📊 Level: Easy
🥗 6 ingredients
Basil Walnut Pesto: So Fresh & Easy! - basil pesto - Basil pesto: Make this easy homemade recipe in under 10 minutes. Packed with fresh basil and walnuts, it's

Basil Walnut Pesto: So Fresh & Easy!

This basil walnut pesto recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their home cooking with vibrant, fresh flavors. Forget the pre-made stuff; this homemade version is incredibly easy to make and tastes infinitely better. Ready in just minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to add a gourmet touch to any meal. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, spreading it on a sandwich, or using it as a dip, this basil pesto is versatile and delicious. You’ll be amazed at how s
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 5
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 ounces fresh basil (about 2 cups packed leaves)
  • ¼ cup walnut halves or pieces
  • 1 garlic clove, peeled and smashed
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil
  • Sea salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Combine 2 cups basil, ¼ cup walnuts, 1 smashed garlic clove, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and ¼ cup olive oil in a food processor.
  2. Pulse ingredients until coarsely chopped, about 10-15 pulses.
  3. With the motor running on low, slowly stream in the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over 30 seconds.
  4. Continue blending until the pesto is creamy and well combined, about 1 minute.
  5. Taste and season with sea salt and fresh ground black pepper, starting with ¼ teaspoon of each.
  6. Blend briefly for 10 seconds more to incorporate seasonings.

Notes

– Use fresh, vibrant basil leaves for the best flavor and color.
– Toasting the walnuts briefly before adding can enhance their nutty flavor.
– For a smoother pesto, add a splash of pasta water when tossing with pasta.
– Store pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; top with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.

Pro tips

  • Use fresh, vibrant basil leaves for the best flavor and color.
  • Toasting the walnuts briefly before adding can enhance their nutty flavor.
  • For a smoother pesto, add a splash of pasta water when tossing with pasta.
  • Store pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; top with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning.

Enjoy this versatile and delicious basil walnut pesto on everything from pasta to pizzas. It’s a simple way to add a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor to your favorite dishes.

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