Classic Italian Flavor Made Fast with the Precision Processor Bowl
This Fresh Basil Pesto is bright, aromatic, and blends in seconds using the Ninja Compact Kitchen System’s food processor bowl. With just a few fresh ingredients and the system’s chopping blade, you’ll get a smooth, emulsified sauce that clings beautifully to pasta, spreads easily on sandwiches, and freezes well for future meals.
If you’re still exploring different systems, our blender reviews with hands-on performance testing insights cover Ninja, Vitamix, and Chefman models side by side, so you’ll know exactly how the Compact Kitchen System compares against competitors.
Table of Contents
Why Small-Batch Sauces Shine in the Compact
The Ninja Compact’s Precision Processor bowl makes this recipe nearly effortless. Unlike larger food processors, the 5-cup bowl offers excellent control for smaller batches without sacrificing texture or overprocessing delicate herbs.
And for cooks who want to branch out from pesto into smoothies, soups, and spreads, check out our recipe library for fresh sauces, hearty soups, nutrient-packed dips, and quick smoothies offering step-by-step creations tailored to every system.
Ingredients (Yields 1 cup)
- 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt (more to taste)
- 1–2 teaspoons lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh cracked pepper (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Processor Bowl
Install the Precision Processor® bowl onto the Ninja Compact base. Insert the chopping blade. Ensure the lid is locked in place before blending.
2. Load the Ingredients
Add basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese into the bowl. Pulse 3–4 times to break down the bulk of the solids before adding any liquid.
3. Emulsify the Sauce
While pulsing or blending on low, slowly drizzle in the olive oil through the lid’s drizzle hole or pause to add it in batches. Continue blending until smooth or your desired texture is reached. Add salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste and pulse again briefly.
4. Serve or Store
Use immediately as a pasta sauce, sandwich spread, or pizza drizzle. Store the rest in an airtight jar in the fridge or freeze in cubes for later use.
Ingredient Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitution Options |
|---|---|
| Pine nuts | Walnuts, cashews, almonds, or sunflower seeds |
| Parmesan cheese | Pecorino Romano, nutritional yeast (vegan) |
| Basil | Arugula, spinach, or parsley |
| Olive oil | Avocado oil or a light-flavored oil |
Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight jar for up to 5–6 days. Press a bit of olive oil on top to prevent browning.
- Freezer: Portion into silicone ice cube trays and freeze. Transfer cubes to a sealed bag and use within 3 months.
- Meal Prep: Make a double batch and freeze half to always have fresh pesto on hand.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per 2 Tbsp serving)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Vitamin K: High (from basil)
- Antioxidants: Moderate
Why This Recipe Works in the Ninja Compact Kitchen System
Unlike traditional countertop food processors, the Ninja Compact Kitchen System is ideal for blending small-batch sauces like pesto without leaving leafy clumps or turning the mixture into a paste. The 5-cup Precision Processor bowl offers optimal space and blade positioning to chop and emulsify fresh herbs, nuts, and cheese without overheating the mixture.
We tested these capabilities in our full Ninja Compact Kitchen System review with performance benchmarks, where it excelled in both doughs and small-batch sauces like this pesto.
Expanding Beyond Pesto
For an Italian-inspired duo, try pairing this pesto with homemade pizza crust. Our whole wheat pizza dough recipe made in the Ninja Compact delivers a chewy, rustic base that complements the bright, garlicky flavor of fresh basil pesto.
Or, keep the green theme going with our fresh basil pesto and Ninja Compact basil variations that adapt this classic into nut-free or vegan-friendly options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a blender instead of the food processor bowl?
You can, but results may vary. The processor bowl offers better texture and easier scraping.
Is pesto supposed to be thick or runny?
It should be spoonable but not watery. Adjust the oil quantity to thin or thicken.
How do I keep the pesto from turning brown?
Add a teaspoon of lemon juice and store with a thin olive oil layer on top.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.
Does the Ninja Compact system overheat small sauces?
No, it runs quickly and efficiently without heating up, which is ideal for herbs.
