Fresh Basil Pesto

Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe (adapted from simply recipes.com)

Ingredients:

• 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
• A food Processor

Directions: 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. Serve with pasta, or over baked potatoes, or spread over toasted baguette slices.

*Variation: add one chopped zucchini to the blender when you add the parmesan cheese, making this more of a dip.  You may need to add more olive oil to taste!