Basil Pesto with Toasted Pine Nuts

This classic Italian sauce is easy to make and perfect for adding flavor to pasta, grilled vegetables, or just about anything else you can think of. Made with fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, and pine nuts, this pesto is creamy, nutty, and bursting with flavor.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 5 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread pine nuts on a baking sheet and toast in preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add basil leaves and cook for 30 seconds, or until wilted.
4. Drain basil leaves and plunge into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
5. Drain basil leaves again and pat dry.
6. Add basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic, salt, and pepper to a food processor or blender.
7. Pulse until finely chopped.
8. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until pesto reaches desired consistency.
9. Transfer pesto to a jar or container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.