Fresh Pesto

I carved this wooden mortar and pestle from a single olive branch. First thing I made in it was pesto. Still the best I have ever had.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 2 cloves garlic
• 3 tablespoons pine nuts
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan until golden. Let cool.
2. Place garlic and salt in your mortar and grind into a paste.
3. Add the pine nuts and grind until broken down but still slightly textured.
4. Add the basil leaves a handful at a time, grinding in a circular motion.
5. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to grind and mix.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese by hand.
7. Taste and adjust salt as needed.

Serve with: pasta, bruschetta, grilled chicken, or spread on sourdough.