Pesto sauce can be used both to toss with pasta and to serve as an appetizer with slices of bread. This is the most simple and basic recipe for pesto.  Be sure to use freshly grated Parmesan, it gives your pesto a fresher taste. If your grocery store does not carry pine nuts, almonds or hazelnuts can be used instead.

 Ingredients 

  • 2 Cups loosely packed basil leaves
  • 1/2 Cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 Cup pine nuts
  • 2 Medium garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1/2 Olive oil

  Directions

In a food processor combine all ingredients and pulse until it forms a paste. Add more olive oil as needed and season with salt and pepper. Bam, pesto!