Wash 2 cups of fresh basil leaves under cold water and pat them dry.

In a food processor, combine the washed basil, 2 cloves of garlic, ⅓ cup of pine nuts, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped.

With the food processor running on low, drizzle in ½ cup of olive oil and process for about 30 seconds until desired consistency is reached.

Add ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper. Pulse to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.

Optional: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and pulse to incorporate.