Pesto Sauce Recipe

There is nothing more evocative of the warmth of Italy than a good homemade pesto. Serve stirred into your favorite pasta. 

Serve 3-4

Ingredients:

1 cup of basil leaves

2 garlic cloves, crushed

2 tablespoons pine nuts

1/2 cup olive oil

1/2 cup finely grated fresh Parmesan cheese

Salt and ground black pepper

Method:

By hand:

1. Using a mortar and pestle, grind the basil, garlic, pine nuts and seasoning into a fine paste.
2. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and whisk in the oil a little at a time. 
3. Add the cheese and blend well. Adjust the seasoning to taste and heat the sauce gently. 

Using a food processor:

1. Plate the basil, garlic, pine nuts and seasoning in the food processor and process as finely as possible. 
2. With the machine running slowly add the oil in a thin stream, combining the ingredients until they have formed a smooth paste. 
3. Add the cheese and pulse quickly 3-4 times. Adjust the seasoning if necessary and heat gently. 

Variation

Pesto makes an excellent dressing for boiled new potatoes. Serve while hot or let cool to room temperature. 

Source: France, Christine. 2007. The Complete Guide to Make Sauces. Hermes House: London.