Fresh Basil Pesto

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Romano cheese (or Parmesan)
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts or chopped walnuts
  • 3 medium sized garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparation

Step 1

Combine the basil in with the nuts, pulse a few times in a food processor. Add the garlic, pulse a few times more. Slowly add the olive oil in a constant stream while the food processor is on. Stop to scrape down the sides of the food processor with a rubber spatula. Add the grated Romano cheese and pulse again until blended. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Makes 1 cup.

Serve with pasta, or over baked potatoes, or spread over toasted baguette slices.