Ingredients:
- 2 cups (60g) fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
- ⅓ cup (40g) pine nuts
- 3 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the basil leaves. Ensure they are free of excess water.
- Lightly toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- In the food processor, combine the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
- Pulse the ingredients until finely chopped and combined.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until a smooth, emulsified paste forms.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Taste and adjust as needed.
- Transfer the pesto to a clean jar or airtight container. To prevent browning, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the top before sealing. Store in the refrigerator.