Pesto is a favorite of mine. The sauce is so simple to make. I don't even make this dish with any meat but, you could easily saute some shrimp or smoked sauce to throw into this recipe.

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Try it for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• For the Pasta:
  • 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)
• For the Pesto:
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
  • 2-3 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, gradually drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.

Combine Pasta and Pesto: In a large mixing bowl or pot, toss the cooked pasta with the pesto. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired

What do you think?