How to Make Pesto

Category: Sauce / Condiment
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: None

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: squeeze of lemon juice

PREPARATION:

1. Toast the pine nuts lightly in a dry pan over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Let cool.
2. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
3. With the processor running, slowly add olive oil in a steady stream until fully incorporated and smooth.
4. Add grated Parmesan, pulse to combine.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice to taste.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.