ASPARAGUS PESTO

Asparagus Pesto image

Provided by Michael Chiarello : Food Network

Time 25m

Yield 3 cups

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 bunch asparagus, about 1 pound, trimmed and cooked for 5 minutes in boiling, salted water
1/2 cup packed coarsely chopped fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
1 tablespoon minced garlic
Grey salt and freshly ground black pepper
About 1 cup pure olive oil
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan

Steps:

Cut the cooked asparagus spears into thirds. Put in a food processor with the basil, pine nuts, garlic, and salt and pepper, to taste. Keep in mind you will add Parmesan as well, so be careful not to oversalt. With the machine running, slowly add the cup of olive oil. When the sauce is about the consistency of mayonnaise, it has enough oil. Pulse in the Parmesan. Thin with water, if necessary, to achieve a slick, saucy pesto. Scrape into a bowl or jar, cover, and refrigerate until needed. You should have about 3 cups. (Keeps about 2 to 3 days, refrigerated.)
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