Basil Pesto with Almonds

Pesto is so versatile. It goes great with poultry, fish and of course pasta. Pesto is made to your own liking using whatever ingredients you have on hand. I made this pesto with almonds in place of the traditional pine nuts. Since this recipe only makes 1 cup I used my blender because it’s so easy to clean but a food processor is fine and a better choice if you decide to make a lot. You can keep extra in the fridge for another meal. I love it with salmon.

Basil Pesto with Almonds

Ingredients

2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/3 cup Almonds
3 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions
Combine the basil and the almonds in the blender of food processor and pulse together. Add the garlic, pulse a few times more.
Slowly add the olive oil in a constant stream while the blender is on. Stop and get all the goodies off the side of the blender. Add the Parmesan cheese and pulse again until blended. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Makes 1 cup.

Pesto on grilled chicken with roasted asparagus

whole wheat pasta with pesto and blackened salmon