Basil Pesto (Light)

Load up on intense flavour, and pare down on calories with less oil, fewer nuts-and more basil. We served this better-for-you pesto over whole-wheat pasta.

3 cups (2 oz) fresh basil leaves
3 Tbsp. walnut pieces
3 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, peeled
1 Tbsp. lemon juice, freshly squeezed
sea salt
pepper, freshly cracked
3 Tbsp. olive oil

In a food processor, combine basil, walnuts, Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, and 3 Tbsp. water; season with salt and pepper. Purée until a paste forms.

With motor running, add oil in a thin stream.

Process until very smooth, about 1 minute.

Makes ¾ cup.