Gather fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and black pepper
Rinse and dry the basil leaves
Toast the pine nuts lightly, if desired
Add basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, salt, and black pepper to a food processor or mortar
Pulse or grind while slowly adding olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth or slightly textured
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed
Use immediately or store in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top