BASIL PESTO WITH TOASTED MACADAMIA NUTS
2 cups basil leaves, tightly packed
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, leaves removed
½ cup olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1/3 cup raw macadamia nuts (toasted at 180°C for 5-7 minutes then cooled)
salt and pepper to taste
Put basil, nuts, Parmesan and garlic in blender. Process until a smooth paste has formed then with the machine running slowly drizzle the oil and lemon juice into the paste. Add salt and pepper to taste. Store in glass jar with lid in fridge for up to 4 weeks. Cover the top of pesto with a thin layer of olive oil.
Perfect stirred through hot pasta and spread on brochette then top with thin slices of roast meat.
Recipe and photo: Elsabie Templeton
