Fresh Basil Pesto

We have one Basil plant in our garden but it has been very productive...

(I don't know how Buzz managed to keep it going through our Texas summer)

It seems like in the past most of this herb went back into the ground as compost; 

this year, I'm finding as many ways as I can to use it.

This recipe makes 1 cup of Pesto and it's delicious!

Fresh Basil Pesto

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 gloves, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method

1. Combine the basil in with the pine nuts, pulse a few times in the food processor. (If you are using walnuts instead of pine nuts and they are not already chopped, pulse them a few times first, before adding the basil.) Add the garlic, pulse a few times more.
2. 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.

Makes 1 Cup 

Simple Recipes  http://simplyrecipes.com