Pesto

Farmers markets are overflowing with fresh basil!  Think ahead and make a fresh batch and stick the rest in your freezer.  Many years go I lived in Ithaca, NY and went to the farmers market every Saturday where not only could you buy marvelous produce but there was music and local crafts people.  The farmer I used to buy my basil from included a recipe for Pesto with every bunch.  While I have modified it a little to have a less fat it is delicious just the same.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of fresh Basil leaves
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 1/2 cup pine nuts
• 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup olive oil

Instructions:

Mash, blend and process all of the ingredients into a smooth paste. If you have parsley you can also substitute a little for the fresh basil.

Serve with hot pasta, as a spread on crusty bread or in a salad.