Fresh Basil Parsley Pesto

Elevate your meals with the vibrant flavors of Fresh Basil Parsley Pesto, a quick and versatile sauce that comes together in just 10 minutes! Featuring the perfect balance of fragrant basil, fresh parsley, and nutty toasted pine nuts (or wallet-friendly walnuts), this pesto is brightened with a zesty splash of lemon juice and a rich hint of Parmesan. Extra-virgin olive oil ties it all together for a luxuriously creamy texture, while a touch of garlic and optional black pepper add depth to the flavor. Perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or drizzling over grilled vegetables, this homemade pesto is a fresh, wholesome alternative to store-bought varieties. Whether you're looking for a crowd-pleasing sauce or a quick meal enhancer, this recipe delivers with bold, herbaceous goodness.

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:0 mins

Total Time:10 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 2 cups Fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
• 1 cup Fresh parsley leaves, tightly packed
• 3 pieces Garlic cloves, peeled
• 0.3333 cup Pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly option)
• 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
• 0.5 cup Extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper, freshly ground (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Wash and thoroughly dry the fresh basil and parsley leaves to remove any dirt or moisture.

Step 2

In a dry skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the pine nuts (or walnuts) for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and allow them to cool.

Step 3

Add the basil, parsley, garlic cloves, toasted nuts, and grated Parmesan cheese to a food processor or high-speed blender.

Step 4

Pulse the ingredients a few times to begin breaking them down.

Step 5

Start the food processor and slowly drizzle in the olive oil through the feeder tube while the machine is running. Continue blending until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 6

Add the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper (if using). Blend again to incorporate the seasoning evenly.

Step 7

Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning, adding an extra pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice if needed.

Step 8

Transfer the pesto to a clean jar or container. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to use.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	464.4 grams (464.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1569

Total Fat 159.00g	204%
Saturated Fat 26.70g	134%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 40mg	13%
Sodium 2003mg	87%
Total Carbohydrate 24.50g	9%
Dietary Fiber 9.90g	35%
Total Sugars 5.30g
Protein 29.90g	60%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1013mg	78%
Iron 17mg	97%
Potassium 2500mg	53%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 86.8%

Protein: 7.3%

Carbs: 5.9%