Meyer Lemon Basil Pesto Recipe
Meyer lemon basil pesto is everything you love about traditional basil pesto with a burst of summery flavors, bright and sweet Meyer lemon, and cheesy Parmesan.
How to Make the Best Meyer Lemon Basil Pesto
This Meyer lemon basil pesto takes the classic Italian sauce and brightens it up with the sweet, floral notes of Meyer lemon. Unlike traditional pesto that relies solely on garlic and basil, this version adds a citrus dimension that makes it perfect for more than just pasta—it’s equally delicious on grilled fish, roasted vegetables, or spread on crusty bread.
The secret to this pesto is the Meyer lemon, a variety that’s sweeter and less acidic than regular lemons, making it ideal for this delicate sauce. The combination of fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, and that bright lemon juice creates a perfectly balanced sauce that captures the essence of summer in every spoonful.
Making pesto at home means you control the quality of ingredients, and it takes just a few minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields enough for several pasta servings, and you can easily freeze it in ice cube trays for convenient portions all season long.
Meyer Lemon Basil Pesto
Meyer lemon basil pesto is everything you love about traditional basil pesto with a burst of summery flavors, bright and sweet Meyer lemon, and cheesy Parmesan.
Ingredients
Pesto
Instructions
Pesto
- In a small sauté pan, toast the pine nuts over low heat for 3 to 4 minutes. Just until fragrant, slightly browned.
- In a food processor, add the basil, pine nuts, garlic and 1/3 cup olive oil. Pulse 5 to 6 times to break up the ingredients then blend for 1 minute. Add Meyer lemon zest, juice, salt, and remaining olive oil. Blend for a full minute until combined and oil becomes slightly emulsified.
- If using right away, stir in parmesan cheese. If freezing or storing for later, wait to add the cheese until use.
Notes
- Store in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for up to three months.
- Add the cheese just before serving if storing for later to maintain the best flavor and texture.