Pasta with Pesto and Pine Nuts

By garry53

Ingredients

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 3/4 c. pine nuts (divided use)
• 2 c. fresh basil with stems removed
• 3 cloves fresh peeled garlic, sliced in half
• 1 c. coarsely grated parmesan cheese (divided use)
• 1/4 t salt
• freshly ground pepper
• 3/4 c. olive oil (divided use)

Preparation

Step 1

Cook pasta, drain and return to a large pan

Meanwhile, place pine nuts in heavy skillet and lightly toast (med/low heat). Stir occasionally and be careful not to burn

Place basil, 1/4 c of pine nuts, garlic, 1/2 c of p. cheese, salt and pepper in food processor. Puree, but don't over process.

Re-Heat pan with pasta on med/low heat. Pour pesto sauce over cooked pasta, Drizzle 1/4 c. of olive oil and remaining pine nuts. Gently distribute olive oil and pine nuts with tongs.

Top with remaining 1/2 c. parmesan. Warm for 3 minutes stirring occasionally