Zesty Lemon Pesto Recipe

This vibrant, light green pesto is so incredibly flavorful, you'll want to eat it straight from the bowl! Made with fresh basil, zesty lemon, and crunchy pine nuts, this recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for pasta, grilled chicken, or as a vibrant spread. Get ready for a burst of sunshine on your plate!

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Calories 919.6 kcal
Protein 21g
Rating Be the first
Zesty Lemon Pesto 103

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Forktionary editorial kitchen team

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Pesto

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How to Make Zesty Lemon Pesto

  1. Combine 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1/2 cup pine nuts, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese in a food processor or blender.
  2. Process until coarsely chopped.
  3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil until a smooth paste forms.
  4. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Process until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  5. Let the pesto stand for at least 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step enhances the overall taste and aroma.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

9g

Fat

58g

Carbs

4g

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Zesty Lemon Pesto?

Zesty Lemon Pesto takes about 15 minutes from start to finish — roughly 5 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Zesty Lemon Pesto?

Zesty Lemon Pesto has approximately 919.6 calories per serving, with about 21 g protein, 4 g carbohydrates and 148 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Zesty Lemon Pesto?

The key ingredients for Zesty Lemon Pesto are Basil Leaves, Garlic Cloves, Lemon Zest, Fresh Lemon Juice, Pine Nuts, Asiago Cheese. See the full list with measurements above.

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