Basic Pesto Recipe

2 cups fresh basil leaves
4 medium-size cloves garlic, chopped
1 cup walnut meats
1 cup best-quality olive oil
1 cup freshly grated imported Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup freshly grated Romano cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1. Process the basil, garlic, and walnuts in a food processor fitted with a steel blade--or in 2 batches in a blender--until finely chopped.

2. With the machine running, pour in the oil in a thin, steady stream.

3. Add the cheeses, a big pinch of salt, and a liberal grinding of pepper. Process briefly to combine. Remove to a bowl and cover until ready to use.
2 cups, enough to sauce 2 pounds of pasta