LEMON GARLIC BASIL PESTO
PREP TIME
10 Minutes
COOK TIME
SERVES
1 Cup
LEVEL
Easy
ABOUT THE RECIPE
Bright, fresh, and deeply aromatic, this lemon garlic basil pesto brings together fragrant basil, vibrant lemon, fresh garlic, and rich extra virgin olive oil. Parmesan and toasted nuts add a touch of richness, while red pepper brings gentle warmth. Spoon it over pasta, spread it onto warm bread, or let it brighten roasted vegetables and simply grilled meats.
INGREDIENTS
2 cups packed fresh basil leaves
2–3 garlic cloves, peeled
2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts, almonds, or pepitas
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup Oliva Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon Trapani Fine Sea Salt, or to taste
Freshly ground Quartet Peppercorn Medley, to taste
PREPARATION
Add the basil, garlic, toasted nuts, Parmesan, Oliva, lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes to a food processor.
Pulse until the pesto is smooth but still slightly textured, scraping down the sides as needed. Taste and season with Trapani Fine Sea Salt and freshly cracked Quartet Pepper.
Transfer to a small jar and drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the surface. Cover and store refrigerated in an airtight container and use within 3–4 days.
Anchored Homestead Note
Two cloves of garlic bring just the right savory depth to this pesto, complementing the brightness of the fresh basil and lemon without overpowering them. For a more pronounced garlic flavor, add a third clove.