You’ve heard of basil pesto, but it seems complex. Guess what, it really isn’t. You just need some good fresh ingredients and a small powerful blender (we love the Nutribullet), and it’s as easy as 1-2-3!

Of course you can put basil pesto on any kind of pasta and you have a tasty meal, but there are other uses. We have tried putting in on chicken, steak and even grilled fish. It jazzes up any dish and makes it look fancy, even though it’s an affordable and simple sauce to make. It also stays fresh for quite a long time. Put it a jar with a lid, keep it in your fridge and grab it as needed.

Pro Tip
Want to grow your own herbs and vegetables no matter what the weather holds? This Aerogarden is well worth the investment. You can grown up to nine vegetables, herbs or flowers at a time in one cycle. And it’s super easy to manage! Grow your basil, trim the leaves and start making your fresh and simple basil pesto.

Easy Basil Pesto

Once you learn how to make this, it will become a staple recipe in your sauce file. Fresh ingredients are the key to the full flavor. Make sure to add your olive oil slowly so it comes together in a thick consistency.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 2

Servings: 1

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Calories: 395

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves packed
1/8 cup pine nuts
1/2 garlic clove
1/8 tsp salt
1/8 cup parmesan cheese grated
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Equipment

1 Blender

Method

Add the basil, pine nuts, garlic, salt and parmesan cheese to a blender and pulse.
Add the olive oil slowly until the pesto becomes smooth. It will be thick.

Basil Pesto FAQs

What can you use basil pesto on besides pasta?
Basil pesto is versatile and can be used on chicken, steak, fish, vegetables, sandwiches, or even as a spread. It adds flavor and a polished look to many dishes with very little effort.

Is pesto good when cooking for one or two people?
Yes, pesto is ideal when cooking for one or two because it’s easy to make in small quantities and can be used across multiple meals throughout the week.

How long does homemade basil pesto last?
Homemade basil pesto can be stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container for several weeks. Keeping it tightly covered helps preserve freshness, color and flavor. You can also put it in ice cube trays and freeze it for months.