Easy & Unique Pesto with Lemon Juice: Fresh, Flavorful, and Simple to Make!

Looking for a quick and flavorful pesto that’s perfect for any dish? This easy pesto recipe is made with just a few simple ingredients and a hint of lemon juice for a fresh twist. It’s perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or drizzling over roasted vegetables. Whether you’re a pesto lover or a beginner, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)

• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts, if preferred)

• 2 cloves garlic, peeled

• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free option)

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste

FAQs:

Can I make this pesto without cheese?

Yes! You can easily make this pesto dairy-free by using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. If you don’t need to substitute, Parmesan adds a rich and savory flavor to the pesto.

Can I use a different nut for the pesto?

Absolutely! If you don’t have pine nuts, you can use walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Each type of nut gives the pesto a slightly different flavor, but they’ll all work great.

How long will this pesto last?

Fresh pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. To preserve its vibrant green color, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before storing.

Can I freeze pesto?

Yes! Freeze pesto in an ice cube tray and store the cubes in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Just pop one out whenever you need a quick serving.

What can I use this pesto on?

Pesto is super versatile! You can use it on pasta, as a sandwich spread, drizzled over grilled chicken, stirred into soups, or spread over roasted vegetables. It’s also great as a dip for crusty bread!

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

Wash the fresh basil leaves and pat them dry. Peel the garlic cloves. If you’re using pine nuts, lightly toast them in a skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes to bring out their flavor.

2. Blend the Pesto:

In a food processor or blender, combine the basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast). Pulse a few times until everything is finely chopped and well combined.

3. Add Olive Oil and Lemon Juice:

With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and lemon juice until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. If the pesto is too thick, you can add more olive oil to reach the desired consistency.

4. Season and Adjust:

Taste your pesto and season it with salt and freshly cracked pepper. If you prefer a more citrusy flavor, feel free to add an extra teaspoon of lemon juice.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Toss the pesto with your favorite pasta, spread it on toast, or drizzle it over a fresh salad. Enjoy the fresh, zesty flavors of this easy pesto!

Pro Tips & Variations:

• Nut-Free Version:

If you have a nut allergy, you can skip the nuts altogether or substitute with seeds, like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

• Add Extra Greens:

For an even more vibrant pesto, add a handful of spinach or arugula along with the basil. This boosts the nutrient content and adds a new layer of flavor.

• Make It Spicy:

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your pesto a little kick. It’s a great option if you like a bit of heat!