Jana's Corner & One and Done Recipes

Pesto is incredibly easy to make and unbelievably delicious! It can be used on pasta, chicken, pizza, sautéed or roasted veggies, and sandwiches.

Ingredients

• 8 cups fresh basil leaves, packed (I usually triple the recipe for larger batches)
• 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups olive oil
• 1 cup pine nuts
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, more to taste
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, more to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients
   • Gather and measure all ingredients.
   • Wash and thoroughly dry the basil leaves.
2. Blend Basil and Pine Nuts
   • In a food processor, combine the basil leaves and pine nuts.
   • Pulse a few times until the basil is chopped and starts to create some moisture.
3. Add Cheese and Garlic
   • Add the Parmesan cheese and garlic powder (or fresh garlic).
   • Pulse a few more times until well mixed.
   • Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Incorporate Olive Oil
   • While the food processor is running, gradually add the olive oil in a steady stream.
   • Stop and scrape down the sides to ensure everything is well incorporated.
5. Season
   • Add the salt and freshly ground black pepper.
   • Pulse a few more times, then taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
6. Store
   • Transfer the pesto to small containers.
   • Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, or freeze up to 6 months.