Basic Basil Pesto

I never really grew up with pesto, but when I first had it in my post-college days, it was love at first taste! =D I loved the taste of it in pasta. Recently, I made a super basic pesto from my friend’s fresh organic garden. She even had purple basil, so we used that too. I will post my pesto-stuffed porkchop recipe a little later, but here is what you need to make first.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves (pack it into measuring cup)
• 1/2 cup EVOO (extra virgin olive oil)
• 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• optional: salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients except oil into your food processor. (We use our Vitamix to blend)
2. Pulse or blend until combined.
3. Slowly pour in olive oil while the blender is on low speed.
4. Add salt/pepper to taste.
5. Pour in a glass container for storage. Best when used fresh.
6. Serve with pasta, bread, chicken, you name it! =)
7. ENJOY and be HAPPY! =D