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–+ servings
Basil di Basilico in a brown pottery bowl with basil leaves around it.
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5 from 80 votes!

Easy Pesto di Basilico (Basil Pesto)

Easily the best Pesto di Basilico recipe! Packed with loads of fresh basil goodness. This is a tasty easy pesto recipe that you are going to love. Ready in just 5 minutes this iconic sauce is so versatile and flavorful! You will be adding to everything!
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Dips and Spreads, sides
Cuisine: Australian
Diet: Diabetic, Gluten Free
Recipe Category: Low Carb
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 114kcal
Author: Megan Ellam

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons pine nuts (30g)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed (60g)
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 0.25 cup extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil (60g)
  • 1-2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 0.25 cup parmesan cheese 25g
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Metric - US Customary

Instructions

CONVENTIONAL METHOD

  • Lightly toast pine nuts in a small frying pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to burn. Allow to cool before using.
  • Place basil, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, parmesan, and cooled pine nuts into a food processor. Blend until a paste forms. Season with salt and pepper.

THERMOMIX METHOD

  • Lightly toast pine nuts in a small frying pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to burn. Allow to cool before using.
  • Place basil, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, parmesan, and pine nuts into mixer; chop 10 sec/speed 7. Scrape down sides of bowl and repeat. Season with salt and pepper.

Notes

SUBSTITUTIONS
Swap the pine nuts for macadamias, almond or cashews.
Basil can be swapped for any soft green leafy herbs or vegetables like parsley or kale.
Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil. The oil can make a difference to the flavour of the pesto.
STORAGE
Fridge - Store in an airtight jar for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezer - Yes, basil pesto can be frozen. Scoop into a silicone ice cube tray and freeze. Defrost - in the fridge overnight before using.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Serve as a side or sauce for any protein. Serve with cheese, or vegetables, dips and crackers.
 
 
 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serve | Calories: 114kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 67mg | Potassium: 48mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 245IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 59mg | Iron: 1mg | Magnesium: 17mg | Net Carbs: 0g