Basic Basil Pesto: – ½ cup toasted pine nuts – 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – 1 small garlic clove – ¼ teaspoon sea salt – freshly ground black pepper – 2 cups basil leaves – ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for a smoother pesto – ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, optional

– In a food processor, combine the pine nuts, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper and pulse until well chopped. – Add the basil and pulse until combined. – With the food processor running, drizzle in the olive oil and pulse until combined. Add the Parmesan cheese, if using, and pulse to briefly combine. For a smoother pesto, add more olive oil.