basil pesto

everytime i purchase basil from trader joe's, i always end up with more than half of the container. i love how they give you so much but i hate for it to go to waste. so i decided to make a pesto and keep it in the freezer so i can add it to soups or pasta sauces!

mise en place

basil pesto
1 cup of fresh basil leaves
2 garlic cloves
1/2 tablespoon of tomato paste
3 tablespoons of parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons of olive oil
salt and pepper to taste

place the basil leaves in a food processor (or blender) with garlic, parmesan and tomato paste. process until its thoroughly mixed. gradually pour in olive oil. salt and pepper to taste.

store in a airtight container in the freezer. can be used to flavor soups or sauces.

tip: adding lemon juice to the pesto keeps the color bright green