Pesto Perks

2013-06-20

Cuisine: American, Italian
Course: Appetizers and Snacks
Skill Level: Easy

Three recipes in one. Part 1 leads to part 2&3

Ingredients

PESTO
1 cup packed basil leaves
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
2 Tbs pine nuts
1 large clove garlic
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
PERKS
1 large baguette, cut in 1/2 inch slices
1 cup sun-dried tomato halves, chopped
1 cup pesto sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
PESTO LOG
1 cup pesto sauce
1 cup butter, softened

Method

Step 1

PESTO:In food processor, finely chop basil, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic and salt and pepper. With motor running, gradually pour in oil and process until smooth. Spoon into ice cube trays; freeze. Makes about 1 cup.

Step 2

PERKS:Cut a baguette into slices; spread with pesto and sprinkle with chopped sun dried tomatoes and shredded mozzarella. Broil just until cheese melts. Serve.

Step 3

PESTO LOG:Mix equal quantities of pesto and softened butter. On plastic wrap, shape into log 1 inch round. Wrap and freeze. Use slices to flavour hot vegetables, baked potatoes and barbequed meat or seafood.