Homemade Pesto With Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Fresh, Flavorful & Ready in 5 Minutes

If you’re looking for a simple, delicious recipe that instantly elevates pasta, salads, sandwiches, and dips;  homemade pesto is the answer. Unlike store-bought versions, fresh pesto made with high-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) delivers brighter flavor, richer texture, and far more nutrients.

This recipe is incredibly easy, customizable, and perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy fresh Mediterranean flavors at home.

Ingredients (Traditional Basil Pesto)

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/3 cup pine nuts (or cashews for an affordable option)
• 2–3 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional for freshness)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Tip: Using premium EVOO, like Jemly’s Tunisian extra virgin olive oil, adds peppery depth, fruitiness, and a smooth silky finish to your pesto.

Instructions

1. Blend the nuts and garlic

In a food processor, pulse pine nuts and garlic until finely chopped.

2. Add basil and cheese

Add the basil leaves and Parmesan. Pulse again until the mixture becomes a thick, green paste.

3. Pour in the olive oil

Slowly drizzle in your extra virgin olive oil while blending until smooth.
The EVOO is what gives pesto its creamy texture and rich flavor, don’t rush this step.

4. Season and finish

Add salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Adjust to taste.

How to Use Your Fresh Pesto

This pesto is incredibly versatile. Try it with:

• Pasta
• Sandwiches and wraps
• Grilled vegetables
• Chicken or fish
• Soups (as a finishing swirl)
• Toast or crostini
• Salad dressings

Health Benefits of Pesto Made With Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1. Rich in antioxidants

EVOO is high in polyphenols, natural antioxidants that support heart health and reduce inflammation.

2. Nutrient-packed greens

Basil is full of vitamin K, magnesium, and antibacterial compounds.

3. Healthy fats + flavor

Premium olive oil makes the pesto creamy while offering monounsaturated fats known to support:

• Heart health
• Brain function
• Balanced cholesterol

4. Boosts immunity and digestion

Garlic provides immune-boosting, antibacterial properties.

How to Store Your Pesto

• Refrigerate up to 5 days
• Freeze in ice cube trays for easy portions
• Add a thin layer of EVOO on top to prevent browning

Why Olive Oil Quality Matters

Your pesto will only taste as good as the olive oil you use.
A high-quality extra virgin olive oil:

✔ Keeps the pesto bright and vibrant
✔ Enhances aroma and depth
✔ Adds natural creaminess
✔ Preserves nutrients

This is why pesto is the perfect recipe to showcase Tunisian single-origin EVOO, known for its fruitiness, smooth mouthfeel, and health benefits.

Final Thoughts

Homemade pesto is one of the simplest ways to bring Mediterranean flavor to your kitchen. With just a few ingredients and high-quality extra virgin olive oil, you can create a fresh, flavorful sauce that elevates every dish.

Try it once — and you’ll never go back to store-bought again.