Basil Pesto

This classic Italian sauce was originated in Genoa (Northern Italy). It is an easy recipe that you can make quickly using a blender. Of course, if you want it to be authentic you can prepare it using  a mortar and pestle. 

3 cups fresh sweet basil leaves

1 cup pine nuts

4 cloves garlic, peeled

1/2 cup Parmesan-Reggiano, grated

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

In a food processor or blender, combine the basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan. Pulse until smooth, scraping the sides of the bowl with a spatula as necessary. Season with salt and pepper.  With a processor running, slowly drizzle olive oil into the mixture. You can use this sauce with pasta, pizza, meat dishes, etc. 

Adapted from http://iheartpesto.blogspot.com/