Want something new for your Pasta?

Try this great pesto recipe. My grandma makes this in large batches and freezes it in 1/2 pint portions which is about the right amount of pesto for 8 servings, or one pound, worth of pasta. I have to admit, I dont make this often because its hard to find fresh basil where I live. Eventually I will learn to grow my own basil and make it all of the time. This recipe is great for pasta on its own, or you can make a fantastic pasta salad too. Just pour it over hot pasta, let chill, and add sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, and whatever else.

Pesto

2 c fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp garlic, finely chopped
1/2 c parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper
1 c olive oil (Grandma reduces this to 3/4 c and it's about the same, just thicker)
2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted

In a blender or food processor, puree all ingredients except for pine nuts. If too thick, add more oil slowly. Sprinkle with pine nuts just before serving. (You can also put the pine nuts in, just make sure you do it last after everything else is combined, and just do a bit of a rough chop on them.)

Pour over hot pasta and stir til everything is coated nicely. Also good on fresh tomato slices, with mozzarella cheese, spread on toast, or pretty much anything.