Basil Pesto

 
pesto chix salad.jpg
 

Makes about 2 cups

2 handfuls fresh basil leaves (about 2 cups, firmly packed)

1 bunch fresh parsley leaves

2 garlic cloves smashed and minced

Juice of 1 lemon

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 cup pine nuts

3 ounces grated Parmesan cheese (about 1 cup) 

sea salt and freshly ground black pepper  

Place 2 handfuls fresh basil leaves (about 2 cups, firmly packed), 1 bunch fresh parsley leaves, 2 garlic cloves smashed and minced and the juice of 1 lemon in the bowl of a food processor fitted with a metal blade.  Pulse several times to roughly chop.  With the motor running, pour 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil in a slow, steady stream.  Stop to scrape down the sides of the bowl several times while adding the oil.  Add 1/2 cup pine nuts, 3 ounces grated Parmesan cheese (about 1 cup) and sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste and puree until smooth, about 1 minute.  Refrigerate in an airtight container until ready to serve or for up to 4 days.

 

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