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Quick and Easy Food Processor Pesto

A fast, fresh basil pesto made in the food processor with nuts, Parmesan, garlic, lemon, and olive oil—ready in minutes.
8 servings
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Level:
Beginner

This quick food processor pesto is the easiest way to add bold, fresh flavor to pasta, sandwiches, and roasted veggies. It blends up in minutes with basil, garlic, lemon, Parmesan, and olive oil for a smooth, classic pesto you can use all week—or freeze in portions for later.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh basil (packed)½ cup nuts (pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds)½ cup grated Parmesan cheese2 tablespoons lemon juice1 teaspoon salt¼ teaspoon black pepper1 clove garlic¾ cup extra virgin olive oil (¼ cup + ½ cup)

Instructions

  1. Add basil, nuts, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, pepper, garlic, and ¼ cup olive oil to a food processor. Pulse until chopped.

  2. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the remaining ½ cup olive oil until smooth and creamy.

  3. Taste and adjust salt, lemon, or pepper as needed.

  4. Use immediately, refrigerate in an airtight container, or freeze in small portions.

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