Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, classic basil pesto is a versatile sauce that elevates pasta, sandwiches, roasted vegetables, and even grilled meats. While store-bought pesto is convenient, making it at home is simple — especially when you have the right tools to release the full flavor of the ingredients.
What You Need
Ingredients
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Fresh basil leaves (about 2 cups, packed)
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Garlic cloves (2–3)
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Pine nuts (¼ cup)
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Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated)
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Extra virgin olive oil (½ cup)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Equipment
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Mortar and pestle
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Grater (for Parmesan)
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Spoon
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Small bowl
Tip: Using a mortar and pestle allows you to grind the ingredients gently, releasing essential oils from the basil and nuts for a richer, more aromatic pesto.
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
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Wash basil leaves and pat dry.
- Peel garlic cloves and toast pine nuts lightly for extra flavor (optional).
Step 2: Pound Basil and Garlic
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Place garlic and a pinch of salt in the mortar and pound to a paste.
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Gradually add basil leaves, pounding and grinding until smooth and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Nuts and Cheese
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Mix in pine nuts and Parmesan, crushing until well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Olive Oil
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Slowly drizzle in olive oil while stirring or grinding, until the pesto reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
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Toss with pasta, spread on bread, drizzle over roasted vegetables, or use as a dip.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent discoloration.
Why Pesto Works So Well
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Fresh basil and garlic create a fragrant, flavorful base.
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Pine nuts and Parmesan add texture and depth.
- Grinding ingredients with a mortar and pestle releases essential oils for maximum aroma and richness.
Tool Tip
A mortar and pestle is the key to authentic, flavorful pesto. Unlike a blender, it gently bruises the basil leaves and crushes the garlic and nuts, unlocking their full aroma and texture.
Explore our range of mortar and pestles here to elevate your homemade sauces, pestos, and pastes every time.
