Basil Pesto Recipe...

Pesto is a great way to preserve it for later use. It can be stored in plastic containers in the freezer for 6 mos..

2 packed cups fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup pine nuts
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
3/4 cup olive oil
Freshly grated black pepper, to taste

Chop basil and garlic to a coarse paste in blender or food processor.  Add nuts and cheese, and process briefly.  Add olive oil in a thin, steady stream while continuing to process.

Variations:  Substitute pecans for the pine nuts, or use lemon basil with almonds; cilantro with toasted pumpkin seeds; oregano with walnuts; mint with cashews.

Makes about 1 1/2 cups.