Faithful basil pesto

Executive Chef Jon T. Severson
Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara

A go-to staple that's easy to make, pesto adds a burst of flavor to pasta, pizza, sandwiches and more. You can freeze this classic recipe to use as needed.

Ingredients

4 cups fresh basil, stems removed
1/2 cup toasted pine nuts
1/4 cup whole, peeled garlic cloves
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. cracked black pepper
2 cups extra virgin olive oil
1 cup grated Grana Padano or Parmesan cheese

Directions

Pulse basil, pine nuts, garlic, salt and pepper in a food processor until mixture is slightly coarse. With machine on, add olive oil in a slow, steady stream until incorporated. Fold in cheese and pulse until smooth, being careful not to overblend.

Makes 3 cups

Photo courtesy of San Francisco 49ers