Have you tried making your own pesto yet? If not, you have to give this Pesto Genovese a shot! This isn't just any recipe; it's an award-winning family treasure passed down from a talented Italian chef from Genoa. What sets it apart is a special preparation method that guarantees a burst of flavor and a silky smooth texture. Trust me, once you taste this vibrant green goodness, you'll never look at store-bought pesto the same way again.
Place pine nuts, olive oil and garlic in a small blender or food processor. Pulse until mixture is a coarse paste.
Add 1 cup of basil to the blender and pulse a few times. Repeat with remaining basil leaves, adding 1 cup at a time. Process, pulsing, until puréed and smooth.
Add the salt and cheeses, then pulse just until blended. Do not over blend, as the sauce can separate.
Place pesto in a small bowl or jar. If preparing more than 30 minutes ahead, cover with a thin layer of olive oil.