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.