Pesto is super easy to make and brings so much flavor to your meals! You can make pasta, spread it on sandwiches, drizzle it on pizza and so much more. I know it can be tempting to buy store bought pesto and be done, but using fresh ingredients and high quality oils tastes so much better!
Ingredients
2 cups fresh basil leaves, washed, large stems removed and packed firmly
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoon pine nuts
2 large garlic cloves lightly crushed
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
Extra olive oil to cover the sauce
Instructions
Add the basil, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic and salt in the work bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel blade and process for 5 - 10 seconds. remove the lid and scrape down the sides of the work bowl with a rubber spatula and process for another 10 - 15 seconds.
When the ingredients are the consistency of a thick paste, remove from the work bowl and mix the cheese by hand until well blended.
Transfer the pesto to a mason jar or an air tight container. Float a small amount of olive oil over the top of the pesto to help prevent discoloration.
Note: If the pesto is going to be frozen, it is important that the cheese is not added at the time of freezing. Allow the pesto to defrost before adding the cheese. This will help to give the pesto a fresher taste and rich consistency.
Enjoy!