Homemade Basil Pesto

By dkanon

Make your own pesto at home and taste the true flavor of this easy and delicious mix.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh basil leaves
• 4 - 6 cloves garlic
• 3/4 c toasted pine nuts
• 1/2 c fresh parsley leaves
• 1 t salt
• 1 c olive oil
• 3/4 c freshly grated Parmesan

Preparation

Step 1

Place all ingredients except the oil and cheese in
a blender or food processor. Slowly, while blender or
processor is running, add the oil and process or blend
to a chunky paste. Do not overblend; you want this
to be chunky, not smooth. Add more oil if needed. Fold
in the cheese and store this up to a week in the
refrigerator, or for several months in the freezer, in
an airtight container.

Serving Suggestions:
Use as a spread on tomato halves or slices, and broil.
Mix with oil and vinegar for an instant and tasty salad dressing.
Mix with bread crumbs to use as a filling for chicken or stuff mushrooms.
Serve over pasta.