Sweet Basil

Classic Basil Pesto

Start to Finish: 20 minutes

2 cups firmly packed basil leaves (2 1/2 ounces)

1/2 cup pine nuts or walnuts, toasted

1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese (2 ounces)

1/3 to 1/2 cup olive oil

3 to 4 cloves garlic, quartered

1/4 teaspoon salt

Ground black pepper

In a food processor or blender, combine basil, pine nuts, cheese, 1/3 cup of the oil, the garlic, and salt. Cover and process or blend until nearly smooth, stopping and scraping sides as necessary and adding enough of the remaining oil to reach desired consistency. Season to taste with pepper. Makes about 3/4 cup.