This recipe is lower in fat than most traditional recipes as it uses water, rather than oil, to achieve a creamy consistency. The difference in flavor and texture is unnoticeable.

Ingredients

• 4 cups loosely packed fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup lightly toasted pine nuts (or walnuts)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated (I use 2/3 cup)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste

Directions

1. Lightly toast pine nuts (or walnuts).
2. In a food processor, chop the basil.
3. Add the nuts, garlic, oil, salt, pepper, and Parmesan. If too thick, add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste for salt and adjust.