Spinach pesto (Holiday menus for the family)

                 For your favorite pasta lover, try packaging this pesto in 1-cup jars or other attractive containers, and give along with bags of pasta. Have fun personalizing your gift, and remember to include the directions for cooking !

Makes about 3 cups

• 4 cups firmly packed spinach (10 to 12 ounces)(350 grams)
• 1 cup firmly packed fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup olive oïl
• ½ cup chopped pine nuts
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 8 cloves garlic

1. Place 2 cups of spinach and remaining ingrédients in food processor, cover and process 1 minute.
2. Add remaining spinach and process about 2 minutes, stopping processor occasionally to scrape sides, until finely chopped and smooth.
3. Serve over hot pasta or spoon on top of a block of cream cheese for a quick appetizer spread if desired.
4. Store covered in refrigerator up to 3 days or in freezer up to 3 months.

BON APPETIT