Homemade Basil Pesto

Why This Pesto Is a Staple in My Kitchen

While there’s no shortage of sauces in this world, pesto is one that I always return to—as you can see from my Pesto Chicken Pinwheels and Pesto Polenta Bites with Tomato Bruschetta. Here’s why I love this homemade version so much.

• A sauce that goes with almost anything. Pesto is one of those sauces that you can put on just about anything—pizza, pasta, sandwiches, fried eggs, roasted vegetables, or just use it as a sauce to dip your bread in. It’s basically the ultimate sauce!
• Easy to make. All you need is a food processor or blender and a few simple ingredients. Within minutes, you’ll have a delicious homemade pesto ready to go.
• Versatile. Not only is pesto versatile in that you can use it all kinds of ways, you can also switch up the ingredients based on your tastes and what you have on hand.

What You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this tasty homemade pesto. Scroll down to the recipe card to find the ingredient quantities and recipe instructions.

• Basil – The main ingredient in a classic pesto! 
• Pecans – Walnuts or pine nuts can be used instead, or try cashews for a creamier pesto. 
• Salt and pepper – I like to use freshly ground pepper.
• Garlic – For a savory, bold flavor.
• Lemon zest – Adds brightness to the pesto.
• Olive oil – Use a good one! An extra-virgin olive oil that you like to use for salad dressings or dipping bread is perfect.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds some richness and cheesy flavor.

How to Make Homemade Basil Pesto

Making homemade basil pesto is simple! Here’s what you’ll need to do.

• Pulse. Add the pecans, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon zest to your food processor or blender and pulse until the nuts are coarsely ground. Add the basil and pulse a few more times.

• Make it saucy. Stream in the olive oil while the food processor or blender runs.
• Finish. Once the pesto is smooth, stir in the Parmesan cheese and use or store. 

Tips and Variations

Follow these tips to ensure your homemade basil pesto turns out perfect every time.

• Make it nut-free. If you want to make a nut-free pesto without giving up the texture nuts add, you can make it with toasted sunflower seeds or pepitas. Hemp hearts are another option; they make the pesto creamy too.
• Don’t over-blend. While blending, take care not to over-process the ingredients as this will give you a thin and overly smooth pesto. A bit of texture adds character.  
• Adjust to taste. Everyone has different preferences, so don’t hesitate to tweak the garlic, salt, or pepper to make the pesto perfect for your palate.  
• Add some spinach. You can swap up to half of the basil with spinach to sneak in a little extra nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

There are SO many ways to enjoy this homemade basil pesto:

• Toss it with your favorite pasta and veggies, like this Basil Pesto Pasta with Roasted Vegetables.
• Spread it on sandwiches or wraps.
• Use it as a topping for grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables. Air Fryer Pesto Salmon is a favorite for a reason!
• Add a dollop to a bowl of Zuppa Toscana.
• Serve it as a dip alongside fresh bread, crackers, or grilled vegetables. Or add a swirl of pesto to Baked Goat Cheese Dip.

How to Store

• Refrigerator: Store homemade basil pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To prevent oxidation and maintain its bright green color, pour a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing the container. 
• Freezer: For longer storage, pesto can be frozen in ice cube trays, allowing you to defrost small portions whenever you need them. Transfer the frozen cubes to a resealable freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

More Homemade Sauce Recipes

• Raspberry Chipotle BBQ Sauce
• My Go-to Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce
• Boom Boom Sauce
• Homemade Ragu Sauce