Category: Sauces -

Basil Pesto     

Ingredients:
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
3 medium sized garlic cloves, minced
1/3 cup pine nuts
1/2 tsp. lemon juice
1/3-2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, divided
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan-Reggiano or Romano cheese

Preparation:
Combine the basil, garlic, and pine nuts in a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped. Add 1/2 cup of the oil and process until fully incorporated and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in lemon juice.

If using immediately, add all the remaining oil and pulse until smooth. Transfer the pesto to a large serving bowl and mix in the cheese.

If freezing, transfer to an air-tight container and drizzle remaining oil over the top. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and stir in cheese.

Date added: 2012-11-19
Number of visits: 2399