Pesto Pasta Recipe

Cook pasta according to package instructions, be sure to use salted water.

Drain (do not rinse), return to warm pot, cover with a lid and set aside.

Heat pine nuts in a small sauté pan over medium-low heat, stirring often until they are browned (4 to 5 minutes). Watch them closely.

Transfer the pine nuts to a bowl to cool. You will use ¼ cup (4 Tablespoons) of nuts in the sauce, and reserve 2 Tablespoons roasted pine nuts for serving over the finished pasta.

Put olive oil and basil leaves into the container of a blender or food processor.. Blend or process for about 60 seconds until the ingredients are combined but not totally smooth. You may need to pause, scrape down the sides, and then continue blending.

Add ¼ cup pine nuts, garlic, lemon juice, parmesan cheese, salt and pepper and blend or process until you reach your desired consistency (about 30-60 seconds). You may need to pause, scrape down the sides, and then continue blending.

Taste and adjust salt and pepper as desired, pulse to combine.

Add the pesto sauce to the warm pasta in the pot and stir to combine.

Transfer the pesto pasta to a serving dish.

Garnish with remaining toasted pine nuts, parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil and if desired some fresh tomatoes (cooked or raw).

Serve warm or transfer to the refrigerator to chill and serve cold.