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Ina Garten Pesto Recipe

Ina Garten Pesto

This pesto follows a traditional Italian approach with a focus on quality rather than quantity. Fresh basil provides the backbone, while pine nuts add richness, Parmesan brings umami, and olive oil ties everything together. The result is smooth, vibrant, and balanced—never oily, never bitter.

Ingredients

  • Fresh basil leaves (4 packed cups)

  • Pine nuts (¼ cup)

  • Garlic cloves (2 medium)

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup)

  • Extra virgin olive oil (½ cup)

  • Kosher salt (¾ teaspoon, or to taste)

  • Black pepper (¼ teaspoon)

Instructions

  • Prepare the basil – Wash and thoroughly dry the basil leaves to avoid excess moisture.

  • Start with solids – Add basil, pine nuts, and garlic to the food processor.

  • Pulse gently – Pulse several times until the mixture is finely chopped.

  • Add cheese – Sprinkle in the Parmesan and pulse briefly to combine.

  • Stream in the oil – With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until smooth.

  • Season and adjust – Add salt and pepper, then taste and adjust as needed.