Terra Americana

Pesto, pesto, pesto, pesto.  Say the word and my mouth starts watering.  It is the perfect way to preserve one of the most iconic flavors of summer; basil.  All it really requires is chopping an blending.  Serve it as a dip, spread it on toast, toss it in pasta or drizzle on grilled meats.  However you like to enjoy it; pesto sheds a light on what is sensational about summer.

1 cup chopped fresh basil (you can also try this with parsely, oregano, chives, etc)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic minced
1 tsp Olio do Panne

Place the basil in a blender. Pour in about 1 tbsp of the oil, and blend basil into a paste. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, garlic, Olio do Panne, and remaining oil. Continue to blend until smooth. Stir in the pine nuts.

If you love pesto:

• Smoked Salmon Chowder With Roasted Garlic and Pesto

• Back of the card cheese and olive bread

• Green Garlic Pesto

• Cilantro Pesto

Photo Credit:  Julie Cecchini