Homemade Basil Pesto

Much like Chimichurri and other garnishes containing herbs and olive oil, basil pesto is very high in polyphenolic compounds and anti-oxidants. This recipe is refreshing and delicious. You can use Pesto for everything from homemade pasta, gnocchi, stuffed chicken breast, roasted vegetables, grilled steak and soups. I have used this homemade pesto recipe with homemade Semolina Pasta and it was absolutely delicious.

What you'll need:

• Food processor

• 1/2 cup Organic Italian Pine Nuts

• 2 Tablespoons Organic Lemon Juice

• 1 Small Organic Garlic Clove

• 1/4 Teaspoon Sea Salt

• Black Pepper to taste

• 2 Cups Organic Basil Leaves (recommend starting a small garden and clipping from your garden)

• 1/4 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• 1/4 Cup **freshly grated**Parmesan Reggiano -- this one is so important. You need to grate it yourself. Just like fresh Carbonara, it makes a difference if it's freshly grated vs. in a bag from the store.

Directions:

1. In a food processor, combine the pine nuts, lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper until finely chopped.

2. Next, add in the fresh Basil until well combined.

3. Slowly add in the EVOO and then freshly grated Parmesan and pulse until well-combined.