3 cups clean, dry basil leaves

6 cloves garlic

1/2 cup pine nuts or toasted almonds (pine nuts are best)

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese

1/3 cup olive oil

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

Place all ingredients except basil leaves in food processor. Process to mix thoroughly. Pack in basil and process until a smooth paste is formed. Use fresh over hot cooked pasta. Can be further dressed up with the addition of cooked shrimp and topped with a sprinkle of pine nuts.