The Pesto of Your Dreams
The Pesto of Your Dreams is a easy Italian recipe that serves 4. 80 calories per serving. Recipe by The Pasta Queen on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 20 min
Cost: $10.30 total, $2.58 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh Basil Leaves (packed, washed and patted dry)
- 2 cloves Garlic (peeled)
- 1/4 cup Pine Nuts (lightly toasted)
- 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese (finely grated)
- 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano Cheese (finely grated)
- 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (high quality, fruity)
- 1/2 tsp Sea Salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
Toast Pine Nuts
Heat the small skillet over medium heat. Add pine nuts and stir constantly until they turn golden and fragrant, about 3‑4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: medium heat
Prepare Aromatics
While the nuts cool, peel the garlic cloves. Roughly chop the basil leaves to make blending easier.
Time: PT2M
Blend the Base
In the food processor, combine the cooled pine nuts, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
Time: PT1M
Add Basil and Cheese
Add the basil leaves, grated Parmigiano‑Reggiano, and grated Pecorino Romano to the processor. Pulse while slowly drizzling in the olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth, glossy sauce.
Time: PT3M
Season and Finish
Taste the pesto and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or a splash more olive oil if needed. Transfer to a storage jar, smooth the top, and drizzle a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 80
- Protein
- 2g
- Carbohydrates
- 2g
- Fat
- 7g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free
Allergens: Tree nuts, Dairy, Garlic
Last updated: April 13, 2026








