Ingredients:
- 2 cups (60g) fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/4 cup (30g) pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a dry skillet over medium-low heat, toast the pine nuts, shaking the pan frequently, until lightly golden brown and fragrant (about 2 minutes). Watch them like a hawk – they burn easily! Immediately transfer to a plate to cool.
- Place the basil leaves and garlic cloves in the food processor bowl.
- Pulse until coarsely chopped.
- Add the toasted pine nuts and Parmesan cheese to the food processor.
- Pulse until finely chopped.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until a smooth paste forms.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days (cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning). Or freeze for later use!