This is a basic pesto recipe but keep in mind that pesto is basically a pureed sauce of leafy greens, olive oil, grated cheese, nuts, garlic and salt and pepper to taste.
Given all that….
Consider replacing the basil with spinach, arugula, watercress, kale (add a squeeze of lemon juice) etc. pine nuts can be replaced with almonds, cashews, walnuts etc. and the cheese can be replaced with another version of a dry grate-able cheese like Romano, Provolone, Ricotta Salata, Asiago etc.
Ingredients
3 c basil, cleaned and trimmed
1 clove of garlic
2 T pine nuts, toasted
1/2 c olive oil
1/4 c Parmesan cheese, grated
Method
In a food processor, combine the basil, garlic, cheese and pine nuts – process.
Drizzle the olive oil while continuing to process.
Transfer the pesto to a bowl, sprinkle with additional cheese and fold to combine.