Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups basil fresh leaves, packed
  • 1/4 cup almonds walnuts or pine nuts, chopped, toasted & cooled
  • 3 large garlic cloves coarsely choppped
  • 3 tablespoons parmesan, parmigiano-reggiano cheese, grated
  • 1 pinch nutmeg ground (optional)
  • 1/2 cup olive oil, extra-virgin
  • 16 ounces cream cheese (reduced-fat) or regular, softened
  • 1 x crackers crostini or crudites, for serving

Method

  • In the bowl of a food processor, combine first 5 ingredients by pulsing until coarsely chopped.
  • Drizzle in the olive oil while processor is running and process until a thick paste is formed.
  • Remove to mixing bowl and combine thoroughly with the softened cream cheese.
  • Place in serving container.
  • Refrigerate until ready to use.