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 Cloves, minced
Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper to taste
Combine the basil in with the pine nuts, pulse a few times in a food processor, or blender. (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. 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. Makes 1 cup. Make a quick and super-delicious meal by mixing your freshly made pesto (amount to your taste) with your favorite cooked and drained pasta. Oh yummy!