One of the best ways to keep an abundant basil harvest. Can be frozen for later use, too!
3 cups loosely packed, fresh basil leaves, washed and drained
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
3 large cloves of garlic (more if you love it!)
1/2 cup pine nuts (or pecan meats)
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese (use fresh cheese)
1 tsp fresh or 1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp fresh ground pepper (or to taste)
1/2 to 2/3 cup fruity olive oil
salt to taste
Combine all the ingredients in a food processor or blender, adding enough olive oil to make a thick, smooth sauce. Add salt to taste. Add to fresh, hot, buttered pasta.
Toss to combine and served right away with fresh garlic bread and a crisp salad.
