For modern makers who like the quickest method: Stick with the food processor. The pesto won’t be as creamy, but if you’re all about efficiency this will do the trick. For those on a budget or with small kitchens: Go for the mezzaluna or the immersion blender.
How to make Homemade Pesto in a Blender:
- Dump basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, lemon, garlic and salt into a blender.
- Pulse the blender while slowly pouring in the olive oil.
- Blend for another 30 seconds or so, until everything is thoroughly combined.
Here are some other ingredients you could add or swap out:
- Add a handful of spinach or kale
- Swap out pine nuts for walnuts, pecans, or almonds
- Add sun-dried tomatoes
Can you use a blender instead of a food processor for pesto?
Short answer, yes. One of my favorite summer sauces is Homemade Pesto in a Blender. Why use a blender? Because I hate pulling out my food processor, and my blender is always out and ready for use (I am a lazy cook!).
My mom always plants basil in her herb garden in the summer, so she always has a ton of fresh basil to use up. The best thing about pesto though is you dont have to just use basil. You can add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley… the options are endless.
I love topping my pizzas with pesto, using it as a spread on sandwiches, and of course pouring it over a big bowl of pasta!
The Easiest Pesto Using NO Food Processor Or Blender
FAQ
Is a blender or food processor better for pesto?
Why won’t my pesto blend in the blender?
Is basil pesto better with a food processor or mortar and pestle?
Why did my pesto turn brown in the food processor?
How do you make pesto with a blender or food processor?
If you want to make pesto using a blender or food processor here’s how. Pulse the garlic and pine nuts into a chunky paste. Use the quantities in the recipe below. Add the basil and pulse into a bright green paste. Pulse in the olive oil, adding more if you want a thinner texture.
Is pesto high in carbohydrates?
Pesto sauce is rich in fiber mainly from basil and excellent quality fats from extra virgin olive oil. This when made at home with the traditional recipe. For store-bought pesto sauce, check the label.
Can you make pesto with a food processor?
The pesto won’t be as creamy, but if you’re all about efficiency this will do the trick. For those on a budget or with small kitchens: Go for the mezzaluna or the immersion blender. We put eight methods of making pesto to the test, including a food processor, traditional Genovese mortar and pestle, and more, and found a clear winner.
Does the motor of a pesto Blender matter?
Motor – The motor does matter. Pesto contains pine nuts and coarse salt. It is essential that your motor be able to power through the tough foods just as smoothly as it powers through the softer items. You might be wondering why you can’t just pull out your trusty blender to make your pesto and other items.