Homemade Basil Pesto

Make your own pesto at home and taste the true flavor of this easy and delicious mix. 4 cups fresh basil leaves 4 - 6 cloves garlic 3/4 cup toasted pine nuts 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves 1 Teaspoon salt (optional) 1 cup olive oil 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan Place all ingredients except the oil and cheese in a blender or food processor. Slowly, while blender or processor is running, add the oil and process or blend to a chunky paste. Do not overblend; you want this to be chunky, not smooth. Add more oil if needed. Fold in the cheese and store this up to a week in the refrigerator, or for several months in the freezer, in an airtight container. Use as a spread on tomato halves or slices, and broil. Mix with oil and vinegar for an instant and tasty salad dressing. Mix with bread crumbs to use as a filling for chicken. Stuff mushrooms with the bread crumb mixture. Serve over pasta.