Pesto is a traditional Italian sauce that is made with basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. The key to making a delicious pesto is using high-quality ingredients and following a few simple techniques. Here are five secrets to making better pesto:

1. Use fresh basil leaves: Fresh basil leaves are essential for making a flavorful pesto. They should be bright green and free of any brown spots or wilting. Avoid using dried basil, as it will not have the same fresh, bright flavor as fresh basil leaves.
2. Use high-quality olive oil: Extra-virgin olive oil is the best choice for making pesto, as it has a fruity, robust flavor that complements the other ingredients. Avoid using low-quality or heavily processed oils, as they will not add the same depth of flavor.
3. Use pine nuts: Pine nuts are traditional ingredient in pesto, they add a rich, nutty flavor and a creamy texture to the sauce. Avoid using cheaper alternatives like walnuts or almonds, as they will not have the same flavor or texture as pine nuts.
4. Use good Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese is a key ingredient in pesto, it adds a sharp, salty flavor that balances out the sweetness of the basil and the oil. Use a good quality Parmesan cheese, preferably one that is aged for at least 12 months, as it will have a stronger, more complex flavor.
5. Adjust the seasoning to taste: Pesto should be seasoned to your taste, so it's essential to adjust the seasoning as you go. Start with a small amount of salt and pepper, then taste and adjust as needed. Keep in mind that the flavor of the pesto will change as it sits, so it's best to add the salt and pepper right before serving.

In conclusion, making a delicious pesto requires using high-quality ingredients and following a few simple techniques. By using fresh basil leaves, high-quality olive oil, pine nuts, good Parmesan cheese, and adjusting the seasoning to taste, you can make a pesto that is flavorful and delicious. You can also experiment with different ingredients like adding different types of nuts or cheese to personalize your pesto.