Classic Pesto

This deliciious pesto is easy to prepare with your fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Use fresh grated Parmesan for the best flavor. I used walnuts in this pesto, but pecans could work, or use the standard pine nuts. Toss with hot cooked pasta or serve as an appetizer spread with crackers and cheese.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Pesto Recipe

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
3 small cloves garlic, finely minced
1/4 cup pine nuts or chopped walnuts or pecans
1/2 cup olive oil
1/3 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

In a food processor, in batches, process the basil leaves until chopped. Add thegarlic and nuts and pulse about 6 to 8 times. Add about half of the olive oil pulse until blended. With the processor running, ad the remaining olive oil in a steady stream. Add the Parmesan cheese and process until well blended. Taste and add salt and pepper, as needed.

Makes about 1 cup of pesto.