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Pesto recipe with walnuts on wooden cutting board

Pesto Recipe with Walnuts

This pesto recipe with walnuts is a simple, budget-friendly twist on classic basil pesto. Made with fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, parmesan, and hearty walnuts, it blends together in minutes for a rich, nutty sauce perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or spooning over warm sourdough.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Course condiment, sauce
Cuisine Italian
Servings 1 cup

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fresh basil
  • 1/2 cup walnuts
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tbs lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions
 

  • Add ingredients to the food processor: Add the walnuts, garlic cloves, fresh basil, salt, lemon juice, olive oil, and grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl of a food processor or high-speed blender.
  • Blend until smooth: Pulse a few times to break everything down, then blend until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. Scrape down the sides as needed.
  • Adjust to taste: Taste and adjust with additional salt, lemon juice, or olive oil if needed. If the pesto is too thick, add a small drizzle of olive oil and blend again.
  • Serve or store: Use immediately, or transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best color retention, pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top before sealing.
Keyword pesto recipe with walnuts