Fresh Basil Pesto

By JMSnell

Ingredients

• 2 C fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/2 C freshly grated Parmesan-Reggiano or Romano Cheese
• 1/2 C extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 C pine nuts or walnuts
• 3 medium sized garlic cloves minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparation

Step 1

Combine the basil in with the pine nuts pulse a few times in a food processor. If you are using walnuts instead of pine nuts and they are not already chopped pulse them a few times first before adding the basil. Add the garlic pulse a few times more.

Slowly add the olive oil in a constant stream whiel the food processor is on. Stop to scrape down the sides of the food processor with a rubber spatula. Add the grated 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