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+ servings
A jar of spinach basil pesto with a spoon in it.
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5 from 1 vote

Spinach Basil Pesto

This Spinach Basil Pesto is the perfect condiment. Add a flavor boost to your meals with this homemade pesto that comes together in under 5 minutes!
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Servings: 1 about 1 cup
Author: Lexi Davidson

Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh basil
  • 1 1/2 cups spinach
  • 1/2 cup pine nuts see note
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil more as needed
  • 1-2 tablespoons warm water as needed for dryness
  • Big pinch of salt and pepper
  • Red pepper flakes to taste
  • 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese optional
  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice for bright flavor!

Instructions

  • Add all of the ingredients, except the olive oil and warm water, to a food processor or a high-speed blender. Pulse until you have a smooth consistency. Note: You can absolutely use either a food processor or a high-speed blender here!
  • With the motor running, drizzle in the olive oill. If needed you can add in a tablespoon of hot water as needed to make a smooth pesto.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Use immediately or store for up to 1 week in a tightly sealed container.

Notes

  • You can substitute the pine nuts for another nut like slivered almonds or cashews.
  • Can't have nuts? Check out this Nut-Free Pesto Recipe.
  • Recipe originally published in 2013, and republished with new photographs in 2020.
  • Large Batch:
    • 2 cups fresh basil
    • 3 cups spinach
    • 1/2 cup pine nuts, or nuts of choice
    • 2 garlic cloves
    • Big pinch of salt and pepper
    • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
    • 1-2 tablespoons warm water, if needed
    • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, optional
    • Red pepper flakes, to taste
    • Squeeze of fresh lemon, for extra flavor/taste!

Nutrition

Calories: 135kcal | Carbohydrates: 6.7g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 12mg | Fiber: 0.9g | Sugar: 1g