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+ servings
Basil pesto in a jar with garlic bulbs and fresh basil in background.
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Basil Pesto

Basil Pesto is good for many things and can be frozen and used whenever you want it. Its super easy to make and so yummy.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Side Dishes
Cuisine: American
Keyword: easy pesto recipe, fresh basil pesto, homemade pesto, how to freeze pesto, pesto with pecans
Servings: 2 cups
Calories: 104kcal
Author: Milisa

Ingredients

  • 6 cups fresh basil
  • 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup pecans
  • 4 garlic cloves sliced
  • 1 cup olive oil + more for storing
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper

Instructions

  • Add fresh basil, Parmesan, pecans, garlic , salt and pepper to bowl of food processor.  
  • Pulse for about 30 seconds or until coarsely ground.
  • Place food processor on low speed and slowly drizzle in olive oil.  
  • Scrape down the sides and continue to process until desired consistency.
  • Spoon into an airtight container and top with a thin layer of olive oil. Store in the refrigerator up to 4 days.

Notes

Freeze Pesto

Pesto makes a large batch and can be frozen for use all year long. Our favorite way is to portion it into vacuum seal bags and it easily keeps for a year or longer. If you don't have a vacuum sealer, you can freeze in ice cube trays. Once the pesto is frozen, remove to a zip to freezer bag and freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 104kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 124mg