2 c. fresh basil leaves, stripped from stems, coarsely chopped, and tightly packed
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1 to 2 tsp. finely chopped garlic
2 tbsp. finely chopped pine nuts, can substitute walnuts
1 to 1 1/2 c. olive oil
1/2 c. freshly grated Romano or Parmesan cheese

In a blender or processor, combine basil, seasonings, garlic, nuts, and 1 cup oil. Blend until smooth, pushing down basil with a spatula. (It should run off the spatula easily.) If too thick, add up to 1/2 cup more oil. Transfer to bowl and add grated cheese. Heat slowly and serve over linguini.