Vibrant Watercress Pesto

Ingredients

• Watercress (2 cups, washed and trimmed)
• Fresh basil leaves (1 cup, packed)
• Pine nuts (1/2 cup, toasted)
• Garlic (2 cloves, peeled)
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated)
• Extra virgin olive oil (1/2 cup)
• Lemon juice (2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste)
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon, or to taste)

Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine the watercress, basil leaves, garlic, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pulse the ingredients until they are well combined and form a thick paste, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. For a thinner pesto, you can add more olive oil.
4. Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
5. Transfer the vibrant watercress pesto to a clean jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use, where it will keep for up to a week.
6. Serve this pesto as a spread on crusty bread, toss it with your favorite pasta, or use it as a flavorful sauce for grilled meats or roasted vegetables.