Easiest Basil Pesto Sauce

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Fresh basil pesto is one of those sauces that instantly elevates a dish, even when everything else is simple. This version is all about ease—no complicated steps, no specialty tools required, just bold, fresh flavor that comes together in minutes.

Whether you’re tossing it with hot pasta, spooning it over grilled chicken, or spreading it on warm bread, this Easiest Basil Pesto Sauce delivers that classic Italian taste with minimal effort and maximum payoff.

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What Makes This Basil Pesto Sauce So Easy?

The beauty of this pesto lies in its flexibility. You don’t need a mortar and pestle or perfectly measured ingredients. A quick blitz in a food processor or blender is enough to transform fresh basil and pantry staples into a smooth, aromatic sauce that tastes vibrant and homemade every single time.

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Ingredients for the Easiest Basil Pesto Sauce

Fresh Basil Leaves – The heart of the sauce, providing that unmistakable fresh, herbal flavor and bright green color.

Garlic – Adds a sharp, savory backbone that balances the sweetness of the basil.

Parmesan Cheese – Brings salty depth and a slightly nutty richness that ties everything together.

Pine Nuts – Give the pesto its classic creamy texture and subtle buttery taste.

Olive Oil – Smooths out the sauce while enhancing all the other flavors with fruity richness.

Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for sharpening and rounding out the final flavor.

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How To Make the Easiest Basil Pesto Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and thoroughly dry the basil leaves. This helps prevent a watery pesto and keeps the color vibrant.

Step 2: Blend the Base

Add basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan to a food processor. Pulse until everything is finely chopped but not completely smooth.

Step 3: Stream in the Olive Oil

With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.

Step 4: Season to Taste

Finish with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust as needed—pesto should be bold, fresh, and well-balanced.

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Serving and Storing the Easiest Basil Pesto Sauce

This pesto is best served fresh, but it stores beautifully. Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to preserve its color and flavor. It also freezes well for quick meals later.

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What to Serve With Basil Pesto Sauce?

Pasta Dishes

Toss with spaghetti, penne, or tortellini for an effortless dinner.

Grilled Chicken or Fish

Use it as a finishing sauce for grilled meats or seafood.

Sandwiches & Wraps

Spread pesto on sandwiches, paninis, or wraps for a flavor boost.

Roasted Vegetables

Drizzle over roasted potatoes, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes.

Pizza & Flatbreads

Swap tomato sauce for pesto as a rich, herby base.

Dips & Appetizers

Serve alongside crusty bread or mix into cream cheese for a quick dip.

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Want More Sauce & Flavor-Packed Ideas?

If this basil pesto sauce fits your style, you’ll definitely enjoy exploring other bold and comforting favorites on ChefAlchemy:

• Pair it with Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a rich, satisfying dinner.
• Spoon it over Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells for an herby twist.
• Serve it alongside Roasted Parmesan Green Beans for an easy side.
• Drizzle it on The Ultimate Italian Grinder Salad to amplify the flavors.
• Try it as a finishing touch for Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes.

For even more inspiration and daily recipe ideas, explore my Pinterest board here: https://www.pinterest.com/chefalchemy/

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this Easiest Basil Pesto Sauce to your Pinterest boards so you always have a fresh, go-to sauce ready when inspiration strikes.

Let me know how you used yours—pasta, chicken, or something creative? I love seeing how these simple recipes become part of your everyday cooking.

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