The Besto Pesto

Pesto is one of those foods that should never, EVER be purchased pre-made.  I don't care how fresh it claims to be, it will never be as good as homemade!  It only takes a few minutes and a few ingredients to whip up a batch for your dinner.  It is so worth the extra time!  I have been making this pesto for years.  In fact, I didn't have a "recipe" for it, so I had to take my time and measure out the ingredients in order to post this recipe for you.  I add less oil than I see in many other pesto recipes.  I find it makes for a richer flavor.  I use this recipe exactly for pesto pizzas, but sometimes I will add a little more oil if using in a pasta.  That's what is great about making your own!  You can customize it each time!!  Once you try it, you will be like me and only have pesto when you can find fresh ingredients to make it yourself!  

Ingredients

5-6 garlic cloves
6 C packed basil
3 Tbsp pine nuts
1/2 C olive oil (or slightly more if desired)
1/2 tsp salt
1 C freshly grated parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Place the peeled garlic cloves into a food processor.  Add the basil leaves and pine nuts on top.  Pulse until coarsely chopped, scraping the sides as needed.
2. With the machine running slowly add the olive oil until desired consistency is reached.
3. Transfer pesto to a medium bowl.  Stir in salt and parmesan cheese.  Adjust salt and/or cheese until flavor is just right for you.   

makes about 1 1/2 cups

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