The 10 Best Food Processor For Pesto of 2025, Tested & Reviewed

Both a food processor and a blender can be used to make pesto, but a food processor is generally preferred for this task. A food processor's wide bowl and sharp blades are well-suited for chopping and blending the ingredients evenly, resulting in a smooth and well-incorporated pesto sauce. Additionally, the larger capacity of a food processor allows you to make pesto in larger batches, making it more convenient, especially if you're preparing pesto for a gathering or storing leftovers.

What is the best appliance to make pesto?

The best appliance to make pesto is a food processor. Its powerful motor, sharp blades, and wide bowl are specifically designed for chopping, blending, and mixing ingredients evenly, resulting in a smooth and well-emulsified pesto sauce. A food processor can efficiently process the combination of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, achieving the desired consistency and flavor profile of traditional pesto.

What can I use instead of a food processor for pesto?

If you don't have a food processor, you can still make pesto using alternative kitchen appliances or tools, albeit with some adjustments. A blender can be used as a substitute for a food processor, although you may need to pulse the ingredients in smaller batches to ensure even blending. Alternatively, you can use a mortar and pestle to crush and blend the ingredients manually, which may require more effort but can result in a rustic and flavorful pesto sauce.

Why did my pesto turn brown in the food processor?

Pesto can turn brown in the food processor due to oxidation, which occurs when the basil leaves are exposed to air. Oxidation causes the chlorophyll in the basil to break down, resulting in a change in color from vibrant green to brown. To prevent this, it's essential to minimize the pesto's exposure to air by covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container immediately after making it. Additionally, adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the pesto can help preserve its green color by inhibiting oxidation.

Why does pesto go bad so fast?

Pesto contains fresh ingredients like basil, garlic, and olive oil, which can spoil relatively quickly if not stored properly. The high moisture content and presence of perishable ingredients make pesto susceptible to bacterial growth and spoilage at room temperature. To prolong its shelf life, it's crucial to store pesto in the refrigerator in an airtight container, where it can last for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze pesto in ice cube trays or small containers for longer-term storage, allowing you to enjoy homemade pesto for several months.

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