PESTO

While this can be served as a stand-alone spread with crusty bread or vegetables, it is delicious mixed with hot pasta. Prepared in a food processor, this pesto is made in a trice.

Serves 4–6

         2 cloves garlic

         2 cups basil leaves

         1 cup pine nuts

         1 tablespoon lemon juice

         ½ teaspoon salt

         ½ cup olive oil

         ½ cup freshly grated parmesan

Place the garlic, basil leaves, pine nuts, lemon juice and salt in a food processor. Process until finely chopped.

Gradually add the oil with the motor running and process until smooth and slightly thickened. Add the parmesan and process until smooth. Add more salt if needed.