Basil and pine nut pesto

serves 4

about 40 fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
3 garlic cloves
25gm/ 1 oz pine nuts
50gm/ 1 3/4 oz parmesan cheese, finely grated
2-3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
salt and pepper
675gm/1 1/2 lb fresh pasta or 350gm/12oz dried pasta

put the basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts and grated parmesan into a food processor and blend for about 30 seconds or until smooth.
keep the motor running and slowly add the olive oil.
season with salt and pepper
meanwhile, cook the pasta in a saucepan of boiling water according to the instructions on the packet or unitl it is cooked through, but still has \'bite\' and drain
transfer the pasta a serving plate adn serve with the pesto
mix well and serve hot with italian bread