How to Make Fresh Basil Pesto

Fresh basil is readily available in grocery stores and markets. It is also quite easy to grow your own. Use some of that wonderful basil in this easy Pesto recipe.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ingredients as listed
• Food prodessor or blender

1. INGREDIENTS:
   
   2 cups fresh basil leaves, firmly packed
   3 cloves garlic, minced
   1/2 cup pine nuts
   1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
   3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
   1 teaspoon salt
   1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
   2/3 cup olive oil

2. Place all ingredients except olive oil in blender or food processor. Process until finely chopped. With processor running, pour oil into mixture. Store in airtight conatiner in refrigerator up to 1 week.
   
   Yield: 2 cups Pesto

3. To freeze: Put pesto into small containers. Add a thin layer of olive oil on top. Seal and freeze.