Basil Pesto

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Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted (can substitute walnuts)
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed tightly)
  • 3 fresh garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano cheese
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and fresh ground pepper to taste

Preparation

Step 1

To toast pine nuts, heat a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Shake the skillet frequently to ensure even browning, about 5 minutes. Pine nuts are small and full of rich oil and will burn quickly. Transfer the pine nuts to a plate to cool. Add pine nuts and basil to food processor. Pulse a few times to blend the two ingredients. Add garlic, and pulse until blended. Next, remove top of food processor and, while pulsing, slowly drizzle in extra-virgin olive oil. When oil is incorporated, remove from processor into a bowl. Fold in cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.

Makes about 1 cup.