How to Make Homemade Pesto

Pesto is one of those culinary gems that can transform a simple dish into something extraordinary—think vibrant green swirls atop your pizza, pasta, or even a humble slice of bread. Making it at home is easier than you might imagine, and the payoff is a fresh, fragrant sauce that beats store-bought jars every time.

Whether you’re growing basil in your backyard or grabbing a bunch from the market, this page will guide you through crafting your own pesto from scratch. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes, you can whip up a batch that’s bursting with flavor and tailored to your taste.

To make homemade pesto, place 4 cloves of garlic and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt into the bowl of a food processor. Process until the garlic is minced. Then add 2 cups of lightly packed fresh basil leaves, 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, and 2 tablespoons of toasted pine nuts. Process again until the sauce is smooth.

Then add 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and pulse just until combined. You can use the pesto sauce immediately, or store in your refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, place in your freezer for up to three months.