Perfect Homemade Pesto Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or alternatives like walnuts or sunflower seeds)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (to taste)

Instructions

1. Rinse the fresh basil leaves under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel or paper towels to eliminate excess moisture.
2. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, and pine nuts. Pulse a few times until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
4. Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the food processor. Pulse again until combined.
5. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth paste.
6. Taste and add salt as needed. If the pesto is too thick, blend in an extra splash of olive oil.
7. Immediately use your pesto or transfer it to an airtight container.