The Secret to Budget-Friendly yet Delicious (Homemade) Pesto

pine nuts

🥗Healthier: walnuts

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Walnuts are more affordable and provide a similar texture.

Parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: Pecorino Romano

Nutritional yeast is dairy-free and lower in fat.

Wash fresh basil leaves and pat dry.

Toast pine nuts in a skillet over medium heat until golden, about 3-4 minutes.

Peel and roughly chop garlic cloves.

Combine basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor.

Pulse until coarsely chopped.

Add grated Parmesan cheese and pulse to combine.

Slowly drizzle in olive oil while the processor is running until smooth.

Add lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to taste, then blend until creamy.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens