Pesto Sauce

In addition to using as a sauce for pasta, this may be spread on broiled meats or chicken, added to soups for extra flavor, or used as a seasoning for salad dressing. A little may be combined with mayonnaise for a vegetable dip; or serve over steamed fresh vegetables or new potatoes.

2 cups fresh basil leaves, firmly packed
    (about 4 bunches of basil)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup pine nuts
1 cup parsley (optional)
1/2 cup freshly-grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 to 1 cup olive oil

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