Cilantro Parsley Pesto

There's a ton of recipes out there similar to this one, and I've tried many of them. This is my own adaptation using a combination of cilantro and parsley. Toasting the pine nuts is crucial for enhanced flavor. Make a day ahead to let the flavors intensify. This is an amazing condiment to grilled fish, seafood and chicken. It's also great as a sauce mixed in pasta.

• Ready In: 10 mins
• Serves: 4-6
• Yields: 1 1/2 Cups

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 cups fresh cilantro or 10  fresh cilantro stems
• 1 1⁄2 cups fresh parsley or 10  parsley sprigs
• 4  garlic cloves
• 1⁄2 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1⁄2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1  tablespoon lemon juice
• 1  teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1⁄2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1⁄4-1⁄3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 -2  tablespoon water (optional)

Directions

1. Place first 8 ingredients in a food processor.
2. With processor running, slowly add olive oil.
3. Add water if mixture is not smooth. Should have peanut butter-type consistency.
4. Serve at room temperature.