Preparation time: 15 minutes

Italy or Provence... ?

The Italian word pesto and the southern French word pistou both come from the Latin pestare meaning to crush - referring to the way the basil is prepared in a mortar so that it can be blended into the sauce. 

Pesto adds a note of southern sunshine to whatever dish it's used in: spread on bread, as a pasta sauce, added to vegetable soup, vegetables, grilled fish, etc.

1. Using a mortar and pestle (or a food processor) blend together all the ingredients except the oil; 
2. gradually whisk in the oil until a smooth creamy sauce is obtained.