Pesto Dip or Sauce

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup pine nuts*
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 2 cups basil leaves*, firmly packed
  • 60g parmesan cheese*, grated
  • Lemon and/or pepper, to season

Substitutes

  • Pine nuts can be substituted for cashews or walnuts
  • Basil leaves can be substituted with baby spinach leaves
  • Parmesan cheese can be substituted with another sharp cheese

Directions

  1. Toast pine nuts in 1 teaspoon of oil in a pan over medium heat for 2-4 minutes.
  2. In a blender, process the nuts and garlic until well combined.
  3. Add basil and while processing, add remaining oil.
  4. Mix in parmesan cheese.
  5. Season with lemon or pepper if desired.

This delicious pesto can be added to pasta, vegetables, soups or sandwiches.