Homemade Shiso Pesto Recipe (Easy Japanese-Style Pesto Sauce)

Shiso pesto recipe is one of the most refreshing and aromatic sauces you can make at home. If you love traditional Italian basil pesto, you’ll be surprised how flavorful and vibrant Japanese shiso can be when blended into a smooth, creamy pesto. With its minty, citrusy, peppery notes, shiso transforms ordinary dishes into something bright and unique.

This recipe uses simple ingredients like green shiso leaves, nuts, garlic, and olive oil, but the results are extraordinary. Whether you’re searching for a new shiso leaves recipe, a twist on classic pesto, or a versatile Japanese sauce to elevate your meals — this homemade shiso pesto recipe is the perfect choice.

What is Shiso Leaf?

Shiso (also called Perilla) is a Japanese herb widely used in East Asian cooking. It belongs to the mint family and has a unique combination of flavors:

• Minty
• Citrusy
• Basil-like
• Slightly spicy
• Fresh and aromatic

The two most common varieties are:

• Green Shiso (Ao Shiso) – used for garnishing, salads, and sauces
• Red Shiso (Aka Shiso) – used for pickling and dyes

For this shiso pesto recipe, green shiso is ideal because of its bright, fresh flavor.

If you’ve ever wondered “What is shiso leaf?”, think of it as a leafy herb similar to mint and basil but with more complexity.

Ingredients for Shiso Pesto Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh green shiso leaves (packed)
• ¼ cup roasted pine nuts or cashews
• 2–3 garlic cloves
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but delicious)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins

• A small serrano pepper (for a spicy shiso serrano version)
• Toasted sesame seeds for Japanese aroma
• A splash of soy sauce for umami

How to Make Shiso Pesto Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Shiso Leaves

Rinse shiso leaves gently under cold running water.
Pat dry using a towel — moisture makes pesto watery.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to a Blender

Into a food processor, add:

• Shiso leaves
• Garlic
• Nuts
• Parmesan (if using)

Pulse a few times until roughly chopped.

Step 3: Slowly Add Olive Oil

Turn on the blender and slowly drizzle olive oil.
Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

Add:

• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Pepper

Blend again.
Taste and adjust — some people prefer bright and tangy, others want rich and nutty.

Step 5: Store or Use Immediately

You can use your fresh shiso pesto recipe right away or store it for later.

Best Ways to Use Shiso Pesto

This is where recipes with shiso truly shine. Shiso pesto recipe is extremely versatile and works beautifully in Western, Japanese, and fusion dishes.

1. Shiso Pesto Pasta

Mix your pesto with:

• Spaghetti
• Linguine
• Penne

Add cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken for a full meal.

2. Shiso Pesto Rice Bowl

Spoon it over:

• Steamed Japanese rice
• Brown rice
• Fried rice

Add tofu or eggs for extra protein.

3. Spread for Sandwiches

Use shiso pesto as:

• Burger spread
• Sandwich filling
• Wrap sauce

The aroma instantly elevates simple recipes.

4. Grilled Chicken or Fish Marinade

The bright, citrusy flavor goes beautifully with:

• Salmon
• White fish
• Chicken breast

5. Dip for Vegetables

Serve with raw veggies or roasted potatoes for a refreshing twist.

6. Japanese Fusion Pizza

Use shiso pesto as the base sauce and top with:

• Mozzarella
• Mushrooms
• Sweet corn
• Seaweed strips

Why You Should Try Shiso Pesto Recipe

1. Fresh & Unique Flavor

It’s unlike basil, mint, or any other herb — a perfect upgrade for pesto lovers.

2. Easy to Make

Ready in less than 10 minutes.

3. Naturally Healthy

Shiso is rich in:

• Vitamins A & C
• Antioxidants
• Anti-inflammatory compounds

4. Perfect for Green Shiso Recipes

If you’re searching for delicious green shiso recipes, this is one of the simplest and tastiest ways to use the herb.

Shiso Leaf Substitutes

If you can’t find shiso, try these alternatives:

• Thai basil
• Fresh mint
• Basil + mint + lemon zest mix
• Perilla leaves (Korean kkaennip)

But keep in mind — nothing matches the unique aroma of real shiso.

Shiso Serrano Pesto Variation

If you enjoy a spicy kick, create a shiso serrano version by adding:

• ½ serrano pepper (seeded for mild heat)
  or
• 1 full serrano pepper (for spicy)

Blend it with the rest of the ingredients and enjoy a fiery, fresh pesto perfect for tacos and noodle bowls.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight jar for 4–5 days.
Pour a thin layer of olive oil on top to keep it green.

Freezer

Freeze in:

• Ice cube trays
• Small containers

Lasts up to 2 months.
Perfect for quick meals.

Tips for the Best Shiso Pesto Recipe

Use Fresh Shiso Only

Old or wilted leaves taste bitter.

Blend Slowly

Over-blending heats the herbs and dulls the color.

Use Lemon to Keep It Green

Lemon juice helps maintain the bright green color.

Try Different Nuts

Cashews make it creamy, pine nuts make it rich.

Health Benefits of Shiso Leaves

Shiso leaves are packed with:

• Vitamin C
• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Antioxidants
• Anti-allergy compounds
• Anti-inflammatory properties

This makes shiso pesto recipe not only delicious but also nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

If you’re exploring new shiso recipes or want an innovative twist on classic pesto, this Japanese-style shiso pesto recipe is something you must try. It’s fresh, aromatic, and incredibly versatile — perfect for pasta, rice bowls, sandwiches, and grilled meats. Whether you’re looking for a simple shiso leaf recipe, curious about what is shiso leaf, or experimenting with green shiso recipes, this pesto fits perfectly into your kitchen routine.

Make it once, and you’ll always want a jar of shiso pesto ready in your refrigerator!