Basic Pesto

fresh basil leaves (packed (or use part basil, baby spinach, parsley or cilantro))

garlic (peeled and rough-chopped)

pine nuts (toasted (or walnuts or pecans - almost any nut can be used))

extra virgin olive oil, divided

kosher salt

freshly ground black pepper

grated Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan cheese or any hard cheese.)

*Possible variations: Roasted Red peppers / Sage / Shallots / Thyme