about 2 oz Genoese basil leaves
PDO Riviera Ligure Extra virgin olive oil
6 Tbsp grated Grana Padano or Parmigiano Reggiano
2 Tbsp Pecorino (romano, toscano, sardo or siciliano)
2 cloves of Vessalico garlic
1 Tbsp Italian pine kernels
1 tbsp chopped walnuts can be substituted for the pine kernels
Coarse sea salt
1.Start by pounding the garlic and salt in the mortar with wooden pestle, until you get a smooth paste.
2.Add the basil, a handful at a time, and keep grinding using a circular motion until each batch of the leaves is incorporated. To preserve the essential oils in the basil, you shouldn�t be too rough with it.
3.Add the pine kernel and grind some more.
4.Add the cheeses and mix well.
5.Add the oil, little by little, until the Pesto has the right consistency
6.Serve with pasta or added to minestrone.