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Close-up view of a vibrant green vegetarian pesto in a bowl, garnished with pine nuts.
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Vegetarian Pesto Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250
A fresh and flavorful homemade pesto perfect for pasta or spreading on bread. Made with basil, pine nuts, and cheese for a vibrant taste.

Ingredients

Pine nuts

  • 4 tablespoons pine nuts (toasted)

Basil and spinach

  • 4-5 cups basil leaves (or basil and spinach) (see notes)

Cheese

  • 1/3 cup parmesan or Italian hard cheese (grated)

Garlic

  • 2 cloves garlic

Lemon juice

  • 1 lemon lemon (juiced)

Olive oil

  • 1/3 cup olive oil (may want more, up to 1/2 cup)

Instructions 

  • Toast pine nuts in a dry pan until lightly browned and fragrant.
  • Blend garlic, most basil, pine nuts, and cheese until finely chopped.
  • Add lemon juice and slowly blend in oil until smooth.
  • Mix in remaining basil, pine nuts, cheese, and more oil until incorporated but chunky.
  • Toss with pasta or store with a layer of olive oil on top.

Notes

Store in the fridge with a layer of olive oil on top to preserve freshness.
Calories: 250kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Pesto, vegetarian