Classic Pesto

Prep 10 min
Total 10 min
Ingredients 5
Servings 20

This is three recipes in one, and all are equally good! Keep pesto on hand to toss with pasta, spread on sandwiches, mix into salads or to top hot meats or vegetables. MORE+ LESS-

By Betty Crocker Kitchens

Updated March 3, 2008

Ingredients

cups firmly packed fresh basil leaves

3/4

cup grated Parmesan cheese

3/4

cup olive or vegetable oil

cloves garlic

1/4

cup pine nuts

Steps

Hide Images

1

In blender or food processor, place all ingredients.
2

Cover; blend on medium speed about 3 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape sides, until smooth.

Expert Tips

Cilantro Pesto: Substitute 1 1/2 cups firmly packed fresh cilantro and 1/2 cup firmly packed fresh parsley for the fresh basil.
Spinach Winter Pesto: Substitute 2 cups firmly packed fresh spinach and 1/2 cup firmly packed fresh basil leaves or 1/4 cup dried basil leaves for the fresh basil.