Fresh Basil Pesto
Makes 1 cup.
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan-Reggiano or Romano cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 3 medium sized garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Combine the basil in with the pine 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 cheese and pulse again until blended.
- Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.