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Basic Basil Pesto

Basic Basil Pesto

A special thanks to whoever invented the food processor, which lets us whip up this tasty pesto in 5 minutes flat.

Everyday Food, June 2010 http://www.marthastewart.com/314321/basic-basil-pesto
3.039215
Rated
60.7843100(52)52
  • Prep Time 5 minutes
  • Total Time 5 minutes
  • Yield Makes 3/4 cup

Ingredients

    • Coarse salt and ground pepper
    • 1 garlic clove, peeled
    • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
    • 3 cups packed fresh basil leaves (2 1/4 ounces)
    • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
    • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan

Directions

  1. On a cutting board, sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon salt over garlic and roughly chop. Using a flat side of the knife blade, crush mixture into a thick paste. Add to a food processor with pine nuts, basil, and 1 tablespoon oil. Pulse until ingredients are finely chopped. With machine running, add remaining oil in a slow, steady stream. Add Parmesan and pulse to combine. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook's Note

Use walnuts or pecans for the pine nuts. You can also replace half the basil with arugula or parsley. Or try cilantro along with pumpkin seeds.

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